PTI March: Major Routes to Islamabad Closed Ahead of Sept 27 Protest

The NHMP has reported closures on the M-1, E-35 and parts of the N-5 due to law-and-order restrictions ahead of the PTI protest planned for September 27.

Several major routes leading to Islamabad remain closed or restricted ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest planned for September 27.

The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) travel advisory lists the restrictions as measures linked to the law-and-order situation. The latest advisory was updated early on September 25.

• The M-1 motorway is closed in both directions from Swabi to the Islamabad Toll Plaza. Southbound traffic is being diverted from the Swabi Interchange.
• The E-35 Hazara Motorway also has restrictions between Jharikas and Burhan. The NHMP lists the southbound lanes as closed because of the law-and-order situation.
• The M-14 has restrictions along the Hakla-Yarik section in both directions.
• On the N-5 Grand Trunk Road, traffic at Attock Khurd faces restrictions in both directions. The NHMP has listed diversions through HPT, Deser Star and Suzuki Motors.

Other Roads Remain Open

The NHMP advisory also lists several closures caused by roadwork on the M-2, M-3 and M-4. Other sections of the motorway network remain open.

The M-5 is reported clear in the latest advisory. Parts of the N-5 in central and southern Punjab also remain open, although some sections have roadwork-related diversions.

What Is the Preparation For?

The restrictions come as PTI prepares for its September 27 protest. The party has called for the release of its founder Imran Khan.

The federal government has also authorized the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Islamabad and several Punjab districts from September 20 to October 5. The Punjab government has requested Rangers deployment in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali.

More than 150 PTI leaders and workers have also been detained under the Maintenance of Public Order law in Rawalpindi Division, according to police sources. Police operations have been reported in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal and Murree.

The latest NHMP advisory shows that road conditions can change during the day. Travelers should check the official advisory before starting journeys toward Islamabad.