Twin Cities on High Alert as TLP Plans Rally in Islamabad

October 10, 2025

The twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi are on high alert as authorities tighten security ahead of a planned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) rally on Friday. The protest, announced as a “Labbaik Al-Aqsa Million March,” is reportedly aimed at expressing solidarity with the people of Palestine.

🚧 Security Measures Tightened

Police have placed hundreds of shipping containers at key locations to seal major routes leading to Islamabad’s Red Zone and adjoining areas. Roads around Serena Chowk, Express Chowk, Nadra Chowk, Agha Khan Road, and Margalla Road have been blocked to control movement.

Entry points from Rawat T-Cross, Faizabad, and Chungi No. 26 are also sealed, while metro bus and electric bus services on 21 routes have been suspended since Thursday evening. Officials warned that mobile and internet services may experience disruptions during the day.

In Rawalpindi, Section 144 has been imposed until October 11 to maintain public order, with over 300 containers used to block entry and exit points.

👮 Massive Security Deployment

More than 7,000 security personnel — including police, Rangers, and Frontier Constabulary — have been deployed in the capital. Law enforcement teams are equipped with anti-riot gear, including tear gas and rubber bullets, to ensure peace.

In Rawalpindi, 6,500 police officers are on duty, supported by Punjab Constabulary and Riot Management Police units. Authorities are also using Safe City surveillance cameras for real-time monitoring.

🚫 Detentions and Precautionary Steps

According to officials, 280 TLP workers have been detained in Islamabad and 160 in Rawalpindi as a preventive measure. Police have also increased checks around hotels and inns near Faizabad, Pirwadhai Mor, Bhara Kahu, and Chungi No. 26, directing management to avoid group bookings.

🕌 TLP’s Statement

TLP’s Naib Nazim-e-Ala for Islamabad Zone, Raja Aamir Shahzad, submitted a request to the deputy commissioner seeking permission and security for the march. The party stated that the rally would begin from Faizabad at 2 PM and proceed peacefully toward the US Embassy in the Diplomatic Enclave.

“The purpose of the march is to express solidarity with the people of Palestine. We request security arrangements to ensure peace and avoid any untoward incident,” the letter read.

🚦 Traffic and Public Advisory

Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel toward Faizabad, Red Zone, and adjoining routes due to expected congestion. Commuters are advised to use alternate routes and stay updated via official traffic advisories.

✅ Summary:

TLP to hold rally from Faizabad to US Embassy
Police seal key routes with over 500 containers
Public transport suspended; mobile services may face disruptions
Section 144 enforced in Rawalpindi till October 11