ISLAMABAD/RAWALPINDI: The federal capital and nearby Rawalpindi remained under lockdown for a second day on Saturday as authorities tightened security to stop the Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) protest march from entering Islamabad.
Over 1,200 paramilitary personnel were deployed in Punjab to block the rally moving from Lahore via GT Road. Police arrested more than 140 protesters during crackdowns in Tarnol and Kati Pahari after rallies carrying TLP flags and banners blocked roads and shouted anti-government slogans.
ڈی آئی جی اسلام آباد محمد جواد طارق نے فیض آباد کے مقام پر تعینات پولیس افسران اور ایف سی جوانوں سے ملاقات کی، جوانوں کے حوصلے، پیشہ ورانہ انداز اور عوامی تحفظ کے لیے ان کی انتھک محنت کو سراہا۔ پولیس افسران دارالحکومت میں امن و امان برقرار رکھنے کے لیے جس عزم اور ذمہ داری سے… pic.twitter.com/WPWu7SjlgG
— Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) October 11, 2025
Police said sound systems and batons were seized, while several protesters escaped. Separate cases were registered under the Pakistan Penal Code and the Amplifier Act.
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All entry and exit points of Islamabad were sealed with around 500 containers, cutting off supplies of milk, vegetables, and poultry, causing price hikes and shortages. Public transport, including Metro Bus and CDA electric buses, was suspended, and schools and shops remained closed.
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By Saturday evening, police began lifting some blockades to ease movement toward the airport, Zero Point, Srinagar Highway, and Expressway.
In Rawalpindi, there was no protest, but residents faced severe difficulties due to closed roads. Traders warned of worsening shortages of flour and sugar, as supply chains from Punjab remained disrupted.
Railway stations were packed as trains became the only way to travel between cities. One commuter said he had to walk long distances because city roads and bus routes were closed.