Peshawar on high alert ahead of likely emergency, governor’s rule

Security has been tightened across Peshawar, with major roads sealed with containers, mobile phone services suspended and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service temporarily halted on Sunday amid the possibility of emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Heavy police contingents have been deployed across the city, particularly around Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Chowk and the adjoining Red Zone.

Roads leading to the area have been blocked with containers and barbed wire, while police have also been stationed along major routes, including GT Road, Warsak Road, Kohat Road and Pishtakhara Road.

Bacha Khan Chowk, Khyber Road and Firdous Chowk are among the other locations where traffic restrictions have been imposed.

The police have issued operational instructions to deal with possible unrest and protests.

Police have been directed to take strict action against those damaging public property or engaging in vandalism.

Protest demonstrations will be video-recorded, while security has been tightened at police stations, government buildings and key roads.

Police have also urged citizens to refrain from violent activities.

Meanwhile, sources said leave for all staff at the Governor House had been cancelled and employees directed to report for duty immediately.