Lahore (Web Desk): The Punjab government on Saturday also approved the deployment of army troops for the security of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.
As per the notification, security will be ensured at airports, roads, venues, and surrounding areas.
The decision to call in the army comes amid rising concerns over the security of critical buildings as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepared for a protest at Lahore Minar-e-Pakistan.
Earlier, authorities in Lahore sealed off all roads leading to Minar-e-Pakistan, placing containers at key access points, cutting off routes around the area.
The protest, announced by PTI for 2pm, prompted the deployment of heavy security across the city.
Law enforcement officials were stationed at all major entry points, and central roads were blocked to prevent any disturbance or unrest.
Security forces also closed off roads from Kasur, Thokar Niaz Baig, Kahna Nau, and Canal Road, further limiting access to the protest site. Lahore’s residents, anticipating delays and disruptions, adjusted their daily activities as the situation unfolded.
Meanwhile, Police on Saturday took multiple lawyers belonging to the PTI into custody from GPO Chowk in Lahore.
The law enforcers resorted to baton charge as well against the counsels protesting outside the Lahore High Court (LHC).
The Punjab government has imposed Section 144, prohibiting political gatherings in Lahore until October 8, while similar restrictions are in place in Mianwali, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Attock until later dates.
Pillion riding has also been banned in Rawalpindi and Attock for Friday and Saturday.
Earlier on Friday, the federal government approved deployment of Pakistan Army personnel in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution to maintain law and order with regard to the SCO summit.
