Govt closes major routes from KP to Islamabad ahead of PTI march
Pakistan shuts the M-1, M-14 and GT Road from September 23, blocking key routes into Islamabad ahead of PTI's September 27 march.
Kamran Ali
Correspondent Nukta
Kamran Ali, a seasoned journalist from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, has a decade of experience covering terrorism, human rights, politics, economy, climate change, culture, and sports. With an MS in Media Studies, he has worked across print, radio, TV, and digital media, producing investigative reports and co-hosting shows that highlight critical issues.
Reuters/File
Pakistan authorities will close major motorways and highways linking Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Islamabad and Punjab from September 23 until further notice, days before the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's planned march on the capital. The closures target the same Islamabad entry routes PTI is expected to use.
Why are roads blocked in Islamabad?
Motorway and highway authorities have not given a reason for the closures, but political analysts and PTI leaders describe the move as an attempt to stop the party's march from reaching Islamabad. PTI has called for a march to the capital on September 27, demanding the release of its jailed founder and former prime minister, Imran Khan.
The M-1 and M-14 motorways, along with the Grand Trunk Road (N-5), will shut to traffic in both directions from the evening of September 23. PTI's leadership has repeatedly said it will reach Islamabad "under any circumstances," setting up a direct standoff with the closures.
Which interchanges and routes are affected?
On the M-1, closures cover Islamabad Toll Plaza, Fateh Jang and Tarnol, Sangjani, Brahma Bahtar, Burhan, Hazara Motorway, Ghazi and Chachh interchanges. On the M-14, closures extend to Hakla, Fateh Jang, Pindi Gheb, Khadpa, Tarap, Daud Khel, Kot Beliyan, Isa Khel and Kundal interchanges.
The GT Road will also close at Attock Khurd. Together, the closures are expected to disrupt traffic across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and the federal capital in the days leading up to the protest.
What has the government said about PTI's march?
Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar told Nukta that PTI would not be allowed to enter Islamabad "under any circumstances." He said the party could present its demands while remaining in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa rather than marching on the capital.
Tarar argued that the release of a jailed person should be pursued through the courts, not through street protests. The route closures add to broader preparations underway ahead of the September 27 march.
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