Pakistan: Tight security, traffic curbs affecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi as of Oct. 4 due to risk of unrest through at least early October /update 1

Authorities have increased security deployments, including implementing an internet shutdown, in and around Islamabad and Rawalpindi as of Oct. 4 as a precaution amid a risk of unrest over proposed constitutional amendments in the coming weeks. Officials have enforced Section 144 orders across the cities until Oct. 6; the rules prohibit unauthorized public gatherings. Authorities have closed China, Express, Marriott, Nadra, and Serena Chowk intersections, as well as Fazal-e-Haq Road. Islamabad's Red Zone and D-Chowk, which houses key government buildings and diplomatic enclaves, are also cordoned off, with shipping containers sealing the area from Serena, Jinnah Avenue, Nadra Square, Marriott Hotel, and Zero Point. Entry points between the cities from Srinagar Highway, Faizabad Chowk, Sanjgani Toll Plaza, Margalla Road, and 9th Avenue remain closed as of Oct. 4. Demonstrations are especially likely to continue from early October, when the government is likely to table the bill in the parliament.

Additional tight security is probable at popular protest sites, including court and government buildings, major intersections, public squares like the Parade Ground, monuments, and parks such as the Fatima Jinnah/F-9 Park. Additional roadblocks and security checks are likely at entry points along interprovincial highways leading to Islamabad. Clashes between police and activists are likely, mainly if demonstrators attempt to gather, defying security restrictions. Associated communications and business disruptions are likely to persist until authorities reinstate internet services. Closure of schools and curtailment of public bus services cannot be ruled out during large and/or violent protests.