Pakistan Fortifies Islamabad, Rawalpindi Ahead of Opposition Protests

Pakistani authorities are fortifying Islamabad and Rawalpindi with shipping containers and a massive security deployment ahead of planned protests by several opposition groups. Jamaat-e-Islami has already begun a long march toward the capital against petroleum levies, while Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) plans a march on September 27 demanding the release of founder Imran Khan. Kisan Ittehad and Kashmiri groups have also announced mobilisations.

More than 22,000 security personnel led by eight Deputy Inspectors General will be deployed in Islamabad, with over 30,000 assigned to Attock district, a key link between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. Rawalpindi police have requested an additional 9,000 personnel. Islamabad Police have cancelled all leave until October 5, barring emergencies.

“Talks between the government and Jamaat-e-Islami lead to no breakthrough, 'super long march' begins.”

Nearly 1,000 cargo containers have been seized and positioned at major intersections and sensitive zones, including the Red Zone, Faizabad, Zero Point, D-Chowk, and Embassy Road. Authorities plan to block 30 entry points, including 11 in Rawalpindi, using containers reinforced with soil bags at some locations.

Talks between the government and Jamaat-e-Islami failed to produce a breakthrough, prompting the party's "super long march" to proceed. Security forces from Rawalpindi division districts have been called in, with separate accommodation arranged for commanding officers.