Punjab Government asks the military to assemble in Lahore for security

The Punjab government has urged for the deployment of military forces in the key and vulnerable areas in Lahore due to the rally of PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) which are leading to the security concerns and civil unrest in Pakistan. To maintain law and order, the government had already implemented Section 144, blocked the main roads with containers, blocked mobile services and around 250 PTI activists were also arrested. 

The roads which are blocked by the security forces are Kasur, Thokar Niaz Baig, Kahna Nau, and Canal road. To continue their protest uninterrupted by the government the PTI supporters decided to select the alternative locations which includes Data Darbar, Ravi Bridge, the railway station and the remaining sites aren’t finalised. It is expected that the protesters might arrive at the designated locations selected by them at any time with diplomatic plans and instructions from the higher authorities of their party. It is reported that the Punjab government has sealed off the roads which lead to Minar-e-Pakistan with containers. 

The capital city of Pakistan’s Punjab province, Lahore is filled with key areas with both historical buildings and modern residential constructions which includes Defence housing authority, Mall road with notable colonial-era architecture, government buildings and institutions, Gulberg, and more. 

It has been confirmed by the Punjab’s Home Department regarding a letter which was sent to the Federal government to call in the military troops for the deployment at the important areas. At all the major entry points and central roads they have placed the Law Enforcement officials to evade the civil unrest. The entry points are

• Lahore Sialkot motorway
• Babu Sabu Interchange
• Thokar Niaz Baig

Section 144 has been enforced till October 8 in the capital city, Lahore, Mianwali, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Attock. Followed by the issue of No Objection Certificate (NOC) by the Deputy Commissioner. The NOC signifies that no objection exists against/regarding a certain action which left the protests uncertain. The Internal Ministry of Punjab government has issued a notification that until October 5 to 17 the army will remain deployed in the capital city Lahore to perpetuate the law and order amidst this chaotic plight.