PTI Protest Enters Third Day: Islamabad Faces Continued Disruptions

Key Developments

1. PTI Protest Led by Bushra Bibi Reaches D-Chowk
   • The protest convoy, led by Bushra Bibi and KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, has reached Islamabad’s D-Chowk.
   • Despite government offers for alternative protest venues, PTI leaders insist on D-Chowk as their final destination.
2. Tensions Escalate Near Zero Point
   • Clashes erupted near Zero Point with protesters pelting stones and police responding with tear gas.
   • Security has been heightened, with the army deployed to key government buildings around Constitution Avenue.
3. Internet Services Face Further Restrictions
   • Mobile internet services remain partially suspended, with authorities considering Wi-Fi restrictions to maintain order.
   • Specific areas may face complete internet blackouts if unrest continues.
4. Major Roads and Metro Services Blocked
   • Major entry points to Islamabad, including GT Road and motorways, are blocked.
   • Lahore’s Metro Bus Service has been curtailed for the fourth consecutive day.
5. Protest Disrupts Flights
   • PTI’s protest has led to the cancellation of multiple domestic and international flights, including operations at Islamabad airport.
6. Appeals for Peace
   • Mosque loudspeakers near D-Chowk urge protesters to remain peaceful and avoid damaging public property.
   • The U.S. State Department has also called for peaceful demonstrations and respect for human rights in Pakistan.
7. Government’s Stance
   • Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reiterated that protests at D-Chowk are unauthorized, warning of stringent measures, including curfews if needed.
   • A late-night notification has deployed the army in Islamabad, with orders to shoot rioters on sight if necessary.
8. PTI Leadership Struggles with Final Strategy
   • Internal disagreements persist within PTI regarding the protest’s location and future strategy.
   • Imran Khan’s recorded video message, agreeing to one of the government’s proposals, has been circulated among PTI leadership for further deliberation.
9. Transport Disruptions Continue
   • With ongoing roadblocks, transportation between major cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi remains disrupted.
   • Nationwide flights and road connectivity are significantly affected.
10. Call for Dialogue
    • Political analysts emphasize the need for dialogue between the government and PTI to resolve the crisis peacefully and restore normalcy.

The protest, now in its third day, continues to impact daily life, with authorities urging restraint and citizens facing disruptions across multiple sectors.