ISLAMABAD / LAHORE — The federal government has formally sanctioned an extension for the deployment of 3,000 Pakistan Rangers personnel across the federal capital territory and multiple administrative divisions of Punjab through October 15, 2026, fortifying law-enforcement perimeters and ensuring civil order.
The Ministry of Interior issued the authorization following formal requests submitted by the Islamabad Chief Commissioner and the Punjab Home Department. The requisition sought continued paramilitary assistance to aid civil administration in maintaining public tranquility and safeguarding critical state infrastructure following the breakdown of political talks and scheduled protest marches toward the capital.
Enforcement of Section 144 and Transit Controls
Under the security protocol, Section 144 remains rigorously enforced in Islamabad and sensitive urban centers, prohibiting public assemblies, unauthorized rallies, weapon displays, and pillion riding. Heavy shipping containers and multi-layered checkpoints have been stationed along pivotal entry gates connecting Rawalpindi and the Red Zone to regulate incoming vehicular flow.
The fortified cordon reinforces existing capital security measures and transit advisories deployed across main transport arteries, ensuring that essential emergency services, hospitals, and diplomatic compounds remain accessible while deterring unlawful disruptions.
Interior Ministry Directives on Public Order
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reiterated that while peaceful expression is respected within constitutional boundaries, unauthorized blockades of national arteries or incursions into high-security zones will face uncompromising administrative enforcement. Minister Naqvi stressed that the capital cannot be subjected to protracted paralysis or economic disruption.
Security agencies have placed additional rapid response units on standby across designated transit hubs. The coordinated deployment also aligns with enhanced protective protocols ahead of high-level regional engagements, complementing security preparations underway as Pakistan coordinates multilateral diplomacy in Islamabad.