Peshawar lockdown after governor’s rule

October 13, 2026

Peshawar faced an extensive security lockdown on Sunday following the imposition of governor’s rule and an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Shipping containers, police barricades and heavy security deployments blocked major roads, leaving residents struggling to reach their destinations. Mobile phone services were unavailable, while internet connectivity was also reportedly disrupted later in the afternoon. The Pakistan Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service remained suspended during the morning, adding to commuters’ difficulties. GT Road was sealed near Firdous Chowk, while access to Khyber Road and the red zone was restricted. Police were deployed near the provincial assembly, Civil Secretariat and other sensitive government installations. Movement was also restricted near Bala Hisar Fort, the central jail and the residences of senior government officials. Containers placed at major intersections forced motorists and pedestrians to take lengthy detours. Several shops between Hospital Road and Firdous Chowk remained closed, while traffic in other parts of the city was considerably lighter than usual. Security personnel checked people travelling towards sensitive locations, and armoured vehicles and riot police were seen moving through the provincial capital. The restrictions affected routine activities and left residents with limited options for travel and communication.

While maintaining public security is a legitimate responsibility of the authorities, extraordinary restrictions must not become a permanent feature of daily life. The imposition of governor’s rule should not mean that citizens lose access to essential services, freedom of movement or the ability to communicate with their families. These basic rights must be protected under the law, even during periods of political uncertainty. The government should restore mobile phone and internet services, resume public transport and remove unnecessary roadblocks as soon as the security situation permits. If restrictions remain necessary at specific locations, authorities should clearly explain their purpose and duration and provide safe alternative routes. Hospitals, workplaces, educational institutions and businesses must be able to function without avoidable disruption. Security measures that impose widespread hardship can deepen public frustration and weaken trust in state institutions. Political differences should be addressed through constitutional and democratic means rather than measures that unnecessarily burden ordinary people.