Twin cities’ administrations on alert as two long marches are set to take place

Twin cities brace for four separate long marches scheduled between September 20 and 27, prompting authorities to introduce extensive security and administrative measures.

Educational institutions, colleges, universities, hotels, markets and transport terminals in Rawalpindi will remain closed, while Metro Bus and Green Electric Bus services will also be suspended.

Mobile internet and lighting services may be shut down during the marches.

Authorities have activated all 1,500 Safe City cameras in Rawalpindi and begun installing large containers at key entry points, including Faizabad, Chungi No. 26, Rawat, Chakri and Adiala Road. Drones will also be used to monitor the situation.

Additional contingents of Rangers and Punjab Constabulary have been deployed, while police have been supplied with tear-gas shells and rubber bullets. Hospitals in the twin cities have been placed on emergency alert, with leave for doctors, nurses and paramedical staff cancelled.

The measures come as Jamaat-e-Islami prepares to begin its long march from Karachi on September 20, while caravans from Rawalpindi division are expected to reach Liaquat Bagh. Meanwhile, PTI is also preparing for a protest scheduled for September 27.

Business and commercial activities in Rawalpindi are expected to remain disrupted from September 21 to 27 due to road closures and security arrangements. Traders and private schools’ representatives have called for political dialogue, warning that repeated protests and closures could further affect economic and social activities.