LAHORE (Web Desk): The Punjab government has sought federal approval for possible restrictions on mobile phone and internet services in selected areas of Rawalpindi and Attock ahead of a planned PTI long march towards Islamabad on Sept. 27.
The Punjab Home Department has reportedly approached the federal authorities with a request to suspend or downgrade telecommunications services in specific sensitive locations.
Officials have cited anticipated law-and-order concerns as the basis for seeking the restrictions, with authorities preparing for possible large-scale political activity around the federal capital.
The proposed measures do not amount to a province-wide suspension of mobile or internet services. The request is understood to be limited to selected areas of Rawalpindi and Attock considered sensitive in view of the expected movement of protesters.
The development comes amid intensified security arrangements along routes connecting Punjab with Islamabad. Authorities have been increasing security at important roads and entry points and making preparations to manage traffic and possible gatherings.
The Punjab government has also sought Rangers deployment in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali through Oct. 5. The additional deployment has been requested to support police and other law-enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order.
Attock is particularly significant because it provides a major connection between Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while Rawalpindi is adjacent to Islamabad and contains several important routes leading towards the federal capital.
The proposed telecommunications measures would require approval and implementation by the relevant federal authorities. Therefore, the request should not be interpreted as confirmation that mobile or internet services will definitely be suspended.
The PTI has announced its Sept. 27 long march towards Islamabad, while authorities have been taking precautionary measures to deal with potential security and traffic challenges.
With the date of the planned march approaching, security agencies and district administrations are continuing preparations, including deployment planning, route management and measures around sensitive locations.
The final decision regarding any restrictions on telecommunications services is expected from the federal authorities after consideration of the Punjab government’s request.
