The suspension of 3G and 4G services in the twin cities has been ordered by a letter from the Ministry of Interior to the Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The letter states that Mohsin Naqvi, the interior minister, has given his approval for 3G and 4G services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to be suspended from today till further notice. According to the letter, the PTA has been directed to coordinate with the Commissioner and IGP Office, ICT, and the Commissioner and RPO Office in Rawalpindi to take the required steps.
In the meantime, Rawalpindi’s Metro Bus service has also been interrupted. There is a large police presence and major roads in the twin cities have been blocked. To control the situation, the traffic police have released a traffic diversion plan. The Punjab administration also immediately enforced Section 144 for ten days throughout the province. The Provincial Government of Punjab has received reliable intelligence reports from law enforcement agencies indicating a serious and imminent threat to public peace, as well as the safety of life and property throughout the province, according to a notification released by the Secretary of the Home Department.
According to reports, organizations like RAW, TTP, and BLA were involved in planned terrorist attacks. According to the notification, authorities are extremely concerned that some political and sectarian groups would plan events or protests that might disturb the peace. As Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) launched the “Aqsa March” towards the US Embassy in Islamabad to protest American backing for Israeli actions in Gaza, the Rawalpindi government implemented Section 144 for four days, prohibiting public gatherings, protests, and pillion riding.
