Over 22,000 Security Personnel Set for Deployment in Islamabad
More than 22,000 security personnel are expected to be deployed in Islamabad as authorities prepare for several political marches and protests planned in the coming days.
Officials said additional security arrangements are also being made in Rawalpindi and Attock, with around 30,000 personnel being called to Attock, a key route connecting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Punjab.
The security preparations come as several groups have announced demonstrations and marches toward Islamabad. Jamaat-i-Islami has announced a march over the petroleum levy, while Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf has planned a September 27 protest. Kissan Ittehad has also announced a march seeking relief for farmers.
Security Arrangements in Islamabad
The security personnel deployed in Islamabad will reportedly operate under the supervision of eight deputy inspectors general, 10 senior superintendents of police, 40 superintendents of police and 58 deputy superintendents of police.
Authorities have also arranged accommodation for personnel arriving from outside the capital. Around 362 police officers and officials are expected to be accommodated in 132 rooms across 13 hotels and guest houses.
Additional police and Frontier Constabulary personnel from other provinces are also being provided accommodation in government buildings, educational institutions, the Sports Complex, marriage halls and police stations.
Entry Points to Face Restrictions
Authorities have begun collecting shipping containers that can be used at entry points around Islamabad and Rawalpindi. According to the report, around 30 entry points are planned for closure, including 11 in Rawalpindi.
Additional forces have also been requested for Rawalpindi. Police officials said around 9,000 personnel were sought to assist local law-enforcement teams during the expected protests.
In Attock, personnel from several Punjab districts, including Sheikhupura, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and Faisalabad, along with the Punjab Constabulary and Riot Management Police, have been called in.
Police Leave Restricted
Rawalpindi police have also restricted leave for personnel until October 1, except in cases of extreme emergency.
The order is part of the wider security arrangements being implemented ahead of the planned demonstrations.
The federal capital is also preparing for possible emergencies linked to the gatherings. Islamabad hospitals have separately been placed on high alert, with emergency supplies, ambulances and blood reserves being prepared.
Authorities are continuing to finalise security and traffic arrangements as the announced marches and protests approach.
