ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Islamabad administration on Sunday blocked all roads leading to the Red Zone as protesters attempted to march towards the sensitive area.
A protest rally was announced toward US Embassy in the Diplomatic Enclave, starting from Markazi Imam Bargah, G-6/2 at in the evening. The protesters were demonstrating their anger over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Khamenei.
The roads which were affected by the rally included Constitution Avenue, 4th Avenue, Isfahani Road, AKM Fazal-ul-Haq Road, Ataturk Avenue, sector G-6/2 and surrounding sectors.
Islamabad roads
The administration has advised to avoid Red Zone and all affected roads completely. “Avoid protest route and surrounding areas. Plan travel in advance – allow extra commute time and use alternate routes,” the advisory said.
Similarly, Srinagar Highway, 9th Avenue, Margalla Road, and IJP Road were also closed due to safety of the people. The city administration has advised people to keep ID documents handy at all times.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has instructed the police and administration to understand the sentiments of the protestors and treat them with respect and dignity.
“Arrangements are being made for Iftar for the protestors. Every Muslim is sad and tearful at this moment, but maintaining peace and order in our country and our cities is also our foremost duty,” she said in a post on X. “Please uphold this duty. In this moment of sorrow, we are all united.”
Meanwhile, Islamabad police resorted to aerial firing outside Serena Chowk to disperse crowd trying to move towards the Red Zone. There were no injuries reported and the situation is under control of Islamabad Police.
