The Punjab government has requested restrictions on mobile and internet services in selected areas of Rawalpindi and Attock ahead of a planned march towards Islamabad on September 27. The Punjab Home Department has approached the federal government seeking either suspension or downgrading of telecommunications services in specific locations, citing the anticipated law-and-order situation surrounding the planned political activity. The request is limited to selected areas rather than the entire province and focuses on locations considered sensitive from a security perspective.
The requested measures include suspension of 2G, 3G and 4G services at specified locations in Rawalpindi from 9:00 AM on September 27. Areas included in the request reportedly cover the route from Barahma Bhatar to the M-1, Gango, Ahata, Taxila City, Wah Saddar, Thallian and Chakri. The Punjab government has also sought the downgrading of mobile and internet services across Attock district. The request was forwarded to the Ministry of Interior following communication from the Punjab Central Police Office regarding preparations for the expected security situation.
However, the requested restrictions had not been formally implemented as of September 23. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has said that it had not received formal instructions from the competent federal authorities to suspend or downgrade mobile and internet services in Rawalpindi or Attock. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has also stated that no such direction had been issued to the PTA by the Ministry of Interior. Therefore, the Punjab government’s request does not itself mean that telecommunications services will definitely be suspended.
The proposed restrictions are part of broader security preparations ahead of the September 27 march. Punjab has also requested the deployment of Rangers in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali, while additional security arrangements are being made along routes leading towards Islamabad. Section 144 has also been imposed across Punjab until October 5, restricting rallies, processions, sit-ins and public gatherings. Any suspension or downgrading of mobile and internet services will depend on approval and formal directions from the relevant federal authorities.
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