Stringent security measures made by the administration ahead of a major PTI protest scheduled on 24 November have left many residents and travelers worried.
For the anticipated major PTI protest on November 24, the government has taken extraordinary measures to secure the capital. Major points of entry and exit of the city itself have all been sealed with large containers placed on many main roads; the concern is causing havoc upon residents and travelers alike. In such an inaccessible city, an intention to block access to the protesters is thereby made. These sorts of measures have made individuals who have planned travel through Islamabad International Airport since many feared possible disturbance in schedules for flight/travel.
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Reassurance from the Pakistan Airports Authority
However, Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) calmed all fears, maintaining that “unaffected just like flight operations at every airport in the country, Islamabad International is also operating smoothly,” as the PAA spokesperson spoke to ProPakistani. Therefore, the spokesperson emphasized that “flights are running as per schedule” to ease any anxiety in the context of this tense condition. Therefore, it appears that flying goes just about unhindered by events while the stage is set for possible delays on the ground, but the closures of roads will hold up many passengers trying to get into the airport. The advice for the passengers is to plan ahead and reserve ample time for the journey while keeping updated on the latest traffic advisories to avoid inconveniences.
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Public Safety and Prolonged Observation
It is a call for protest by PTI at a time of political unrest in the country, and already the security agencies are keeping detailed observation on the city for developments. Security personnel have been deployed all over the city to keep law and order, and regular updates will follow as things go by. This is what the government puts in place to maintain safety for the general public while at the same time attempting to manage any resultant effect on daily mundane activities and travel schedules.
Conclusively, Security arrangements prior to the PTI protest are indicative of the government’s concern for orderliness in the capital. Furthermore, travel advisories will be issued to avoid disruption while traveling.