In anticipation of the demonstrations, more than 22,000 security personnel would be stationed in Islamabad.

Islamabad and Rawalpindi Division have been put under tight security arrangements by the government in view of the planned protest rallies and marches by numerous opposition parties to preserve law and order.

Over 22,000 security troops are covering Islamabad under the command of eight deputy inspectors general (DIGs), while around 30,000 personnel are being posted in Attock district, a vital route connecting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Punjab.

More police personnel from neighboring districts have begun to reach Attock to help the local law-enforcers. The police in Rawalpindi have also sought about 9,000 more troops to tighten security for the planned protests.

Authorities are also planning to limit movement into the twin cities if needed. It is estimated that around 30 access points would be blocked including 11 sites in Rawalpindi with a huge number of cargo containers being placed along highways and other locations.

Several political and farmers’ groups have announced protests in Islamabad in coming days. Jamaat-i-Islami has organized a long march against the rising rates of petroleum products while Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has announced a march on September 27 demanding the release of its founder Imran Khan.

Protest march demanding relief for farmers announced by Kissan Ittehad.

As to the security plan, more than 22,000 people posted in Islamabad will work under the command of eight DIGs, 10 senior superintendents of police (SSPs), 40 superintendents of police (SPs) and 58 deputy superintendents of police (DSPs). Accommodation has been provided for officers arriving from outside the capital.

Attock has received about 30,000 security men from various regions of Punjab including Sheikhupura, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and Faisalabad. Personnel of Punjab Constabulary, Riot Management Police and other special teams are also being deployed.

All forms of leaves of police personnel in Rawalpindi district have been stopped till October 1 except in extraordinary emergencies.

The Islamabad government and police have made arrangements for the lodging of the troops coming from other districts. As per the arrangement, 362 police officers and officials will be staying in 132 rooms in 13 hotels and guest homes.

The eight DIGs will be staying at a hotel in Melody, G-6, and 10 SSPs will be lodged in a hotel in the Blue Area. Accommodation for SPs, DSPs and inspectors has been provided at a number of hotels and guest houses.

Arrangements are also being made for police and Frontier Corps members coming from neighboring provinces. They are considering government buildings, educational institutions, the Sports Complex, marriage halls and police stations as places to lodge them.

The security measures are in place to keep public order and ensure the safety of residents and commuters as officials brace for scheduled rallies.