ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) - Security preparations have been intensified across Islamabad and the Rawalpindi Division as authorities make arrangements to maintain law and order amid planned protest rallies and marches by several opposition groups.
More than 22,000 security personnel are being deployed in Islamabad under the supervision of eight deputy inspectors general (DIGs), while around 30,000 personnel are being assigned to Attock district, a key route connecting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Punjab.
Additional police personnel have started arriving in Attock from other districts to assist local law-enforcement authorities. The Rawalpindi police have also requested around 9,000 additional personnel to reinforce security arrangements during the expected protests.
Authorities are also preparing to restrict access to the twin cities if necessary. Around 30 entry points are expected to be blocked, including 11 points in Rawalpindi, with a large number of shipping containers being positioned along highways and other locations.
Several political and farmers' groups have announced demonstrations in Islamabad in the coming days. Jamaat-i-Islami has announced a long march against increased petroleum product levies, while Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has announced a march on September 27 calling for the release of its founder, Imran Khan.
The Kissan Ittehad has also announced a protest march seeking relief for farmers.
According to the security plan, the more than 22,000 personnel assigned to Islamabad will operate under eight DIGs, 10 senior superintendents of police (SSPs), 40 superintendents of police (SPs) and 58 deputy superintendents of police (DSPs). Accommodation arrangements have been made for officers arriving from outside the capital.
In Attock, approximately 30,000 security personnel have been called in from various parts of Punjab, including Sheikhupura, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and Faisalabad. Personnel from the Punjab Constabulary, Riot Management Police and other specialized units are also being deployed.
Meanwhile, all types of leave for police personnel in Rawalpindi district have been suspended until October 1, except in cases of extreme emergency.
The Islamabad administration and police have arranged accommodation for personnel arriving from other districts. Under the plan, 362 police officers and officials will be accommodated in 132 rooms across 13 hotels and guest houses.
The eight DIGs will be accommodated at a hotel in Melody, G-6, while 10 SSPs will stay at a hotel in the Blue Area. Accommodation for SPs, DSPs and inspectors has been arranged at various hotels and guest houses.
Additional arrangements are also being made for police and Frontier Corps personnel arriving from other provinces. Government buildings, educational institutions, the Sports Complex, marriage halls and police stations are among the locations being considered for their accommodation.
The security measures are aimed at maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of residents and commuters as authorities prepare for the planned demonstrations.