Islamabad Closes Schools and Metro Services Amid PTI Protest
Islamabad:In anticipation of a protest by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) at D-Chowk, all educational institutions in the twin cities have been closed. Metro bus services across the region have also been suspended, and the capital’s Red Zone has been completely sealed off.
The All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association of Northern Punjab announced the closure of schools in Rawalpindi due to concerns for children’s safety and expected road blockages caused by containers set up for the protest. Association President Abrar Ahmed Khan stated that the decision was made in light of these safety concerns.
The Islamabad Private School Association has similarly declared a precautionary closure of all schools in the capital. General Secretary Waheed Khan emphasized that student safety is their primary concern. He noted that they have been in contact with the Deputy Commissioner to stay informed about the situation, but had not received any updates by noon.
“Our priority is to keep students safe, and we do not want them to face unnecessary difficulties due to road blockages,” Khan explained. Many students faced challenges on Thursday as containers obstructed their routes to school.
Additionally, all entry points into the capital have been closed off with containers, and a ban on double riding on motorcycles has been imposed in the twin cities. Many private offices have advised employees to work from home. While most businesses in Rawalpindi typically close on Fridays, it is expected that many commercial centers in Islamabad will also remain closed due to security measures and lack of transportation.
