Rows of shipping containers have once again become a defining feature of Islamabad's political landscape, lining major junctions, entry points and approaches to the Red Zone as the capital remains on alert for possible protests.
The barriers, placed ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) march, have stayed in position even after the party pushed the mobilisation back to October 4. The protest was originally scheduled to descend on the federal capital today, September 27.
The container cordon remains visible at Faizabad, 26 Number Chungi, T-Chowk, Margalla Avenue and other key entry points, while barricades continue to guard several approaches to the Red Zone.
Some traffic has been diverted to alternative routes, although major roads across the capital have not been completely closed and traffic continues to flow on several important routes.
According to sources, the administration had moved the containers to various locations in advance so that key roads could be closed immediately if required. Police and other law-enforcement personnel have also been deployed at sensitive locations. The arrangements were originally made ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's September 27 protest and long march. Following the party's decision to postpone the mobilisation to October 4, the security arrangements are expected to remain in place for longer, increasing the cost to the national exchequer.
According to a media report, the capital police had initially sought Rs820 million for security arrangements, including container rentals, accommodation and meals for police personnel being brought in from Punjab and Sindh.
The estimate was calculated for one week, with police expecting the protest and march to disperse by October 4.
