Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said on Wednesday that the PTI public meeting in ICT would not be held as scheduled on Thursday.
The announcement was made following consultations with PTI founder Imran Khan by party chairman Azam Swati during a briefing to the media.
The political environment has been tense, with the PTI intending to move forward with the Islamabad rally even after the ICT administration cancelled the event’s permit late last night.
This action led to enhanced security measures to be put in place in the twin cities. Containers were placed throughout the Red Zone to prevent any means of access to the area. Security was also tightened with the general public banned from accessing the Red Zone, whereby only those with government issued office identity cards were allowed to access the area.
Read also: Supreme Court declares PTI eligible for reserved seats with 8-5 majority verdict
In addition to the city’s existing challenges, the ongoing Pakistan-Bangladesh Cricket Test match in Rawalpindi resulted in the partial shutdown of Murree Road adjacent to the Cricket Stadium, exacerbating traffic congestion. In an effort to address these issues, the administration of Islamabad has formally declared a holiday for educational institutions throughout the city.
Read more: PTI rally: Imran Khan urges people to come out amidst Red Zone lock down, Section 144
In Lahore, there was tension around the Ravi Toll Plaza due to the temporary closure of the entry from the Islamabad direction. As a result, traffic was diverted via Babu Sabu Chowk, Sagian, and the Ring Road. Amara Athar, the Chief Traffic Officer of Lahore, advised the public to confirm their travel routes before starting their trips and to reach out to the helpline at 15 for any needed support.
A huge contingent of Lahore Police was stationed at Thokar Niaz Baig as female members of PTI’s women’s wing assembled to join a procession headed towards the rally.
Nevertheless, PTI leader Azam Swati declared that due to the event’s delay, the public gathering would take place on September 8. He pleaded with all PTI caravans to obey Imran Khan’s orders and go back to their home destinations.
