22,000 troops deployed as Islamabad braces for protests

More than 22,000 security personnel are expected to be deployed in Islamabad as authorities step up preparations for possible protests, long marches and sit-ins planned by opposition parties in the coming days.

Security arrangements are being strengthened across Islamabad and Rawalpindi amid calls for demonstrations by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) and Kissan Ittehad.

Officials said more than 22,000 personnel would be deployed in the federal capital under the supervision of eight deputy inspectors general, 10 senior superintendents of police, 40 superintendents of police and 58 deputy superintendents of police.

Another 30,000 security personnel have reportedly been called to Attock because of its strategic location between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. Additional police officers and personnel from several districts have started reaching the district to support the local police.

The security buildup comes as JI has announced a long march towards Islamabad against the petroleum levy. PTI has also planned a march on September 27, seeking the release of its founder Imran Khan. Kissan Ittehad has separately announced a protest march to demand relief for farmers.

Authorities have also begun collecting shipping containers that could be used to restrict movement at key entry points into the twin cities. Officials said around 30 entry points could be blocked, including 11 routes in Rawalpindi, if the protests move towards Islamabad.

A significant number of containers have already been positioned along highways and in open areas as part of the security arrangements. The measures are aimed at preventing large gatherings from entering sensitive areas of the capital.

In Rawalpindi, police have requested around 9,000 additional personnel to assist with maintaining law and order during the expected protests. Police officials have also imposed restrictions on leave in the district until October 1, except in cases involving extreme emergencies.

The security plan also includes accommodation arrangements for personnel being brought in from outside Islamabad. Authorities have arranged 132 rooms across 13 hotels and guest houses for 362 police officers and officials assigned to law and order duties.

The eight DIGs will be accommodated at a hotel in the Melody area, while the 10 SSPs will stay at a hotel in the Blue Area. Accommodation for SPs, DSPs and inspectors has been arranged at various hotels and guest houses.

Officials are also making arrangements for police and Frontier Constabulary personnel arriving from other provinces. Government buildings, educational institutions, the Sports Complex, marriage halls and police stations are among the locations being considered for their accommodation.

The preparations reflect heightened security concerns in the twin cities as multiple political and farmers’ groups prepare to hold demonstrations and marches in Islamabad over the coming week.