Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf changes Aug. 13 rally venue from Islamabad's Parade Ground to National Hockey Stadium in Lahore /update 1

Event

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has changed the venue for its planned Aug. 13 rally. The event will now take place at the National Hockey Stadium in Lahore, Punjab Province; organizers had originally slated the gathering for Islamabad's Parade Ground. The purpose of the event is to provide a show of strength on the eve of Pakistani Independence Day amid calls by the PTI for fresh general elections. Thousands of people may participate in the gathering. At such party functions, activists typically assemble beginning in the morning while leaders address crowds in the evening. PTI officials may cancel or change the event details at short notice due to legal orders or government-related restrictions.

Security personnel will probably deploy to monitor the rally. Localized traffic restrictions, including road closures, are possible near the stadium, particularly if PTI activists attempt to demonstrate or march along nearby streets after the rally ends.

Advice

Exercise caution if traveling near the National Hockey Stadium in Lahore on Aug. 13. Plan accordingly for possible localized transport and business disruptions. Heed all official security and traffic advisories.