RAWALPINDI: Security preparations for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned September 27 long march have entered their final phase, with more than 43,000 police personnel set to be deployed across Rawalpindi Division and additional riot-control equipment sought by authorities.
According to the security plan, police personnel will be deployed across Attock, Rawalpindi, Murree, Jhelum and Chakwal to manage security and prevent protesters from entering the twin cities. More than 30,000 personnel are expected to be deployed in Attock alone, while over 10,000 will perform duties in Rawalpindi district.
Authorities have sought 500 repeater guns and 57,000 rubber bullets, along with 710 tear-gas guns and additional tear-gas shells. The requested equipment also includes anti-riot kits, long transparent shields, bulletproof helmets and bulletproof jackets.
The security plan includes deployment at multiple entry and blocking points. In Rawalpindi district, more than 10,000 police personnel are expected to cover 26 entry points, 73 blocking points, police pickets and roads connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
For surveillance, authorities have also requested 12 quadcopters and their operators, while additional logistical resources include armoured personnel carriers, water cannons, prison vans and megaphones.
Rangers Deployment Sought
The Punjab government has requested the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali from September 22 to October 5 to assist provincial police with maintaining law and order. The request includes three Rangers companies for Rawalpindi, five wings for Attock, and one company each for Jhelum and Mianwali.
The proposed deployment has been requested under Article 245 of the Constitution and relevant provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act and Pakistan Rangers Ordinance.
Roads and Public Movement
Authorities have said Rawalpindi and Islamabad would remain open while officials assess the situation as the march approaches. Police and administrative officials are expected to review developments and determine further measures if protesters cross designated barriers or move toward the twin cities.
Several major routes have already been affected by security measures. Reports indicate that portions of the M-1 and M-14 motorways and the GT Road around Attock have been closed or restricted, with traffic being diverted at some points.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province from September 23 to October 5, restricting public gatherings of five or more people in specified public places. Islamabad has also imposed restrictions on gatherings.
The PTI has announced its September 27 long march to Islamabad, with the party saying the protest is linked to its political demands, including the release of its founder Imran Khan.
The security measures remain subject to developments as authorities prepare for the planned march.