Quaid-e-Azam University & several colleges to remain closed tomorrow amid protests in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Twin cities Islamabad and Rawalpindi staged mass protests and Quaid-e-Azam University announced suspension of classes and transport services on Friday, October 4, 2024.

Read More: Holiday for schools, offices expected in twin cities on October 4?

As per the details, a notification shared by the public research university said that no transport will be available on October 4 and the closure will continue for three days, affecting classes and transport services on Saturday and Sunday as well. Several other colleges in the twin cities also suspended classes in view of the protests.

The decision comes in response to expected protests by Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party, prompting authorities to seal off the red zone. Several containers have been placed on the roads leading to the area to deal with the agitators, mainly restricting access to Margalla Road.

A similar blockade has been imposed on the Express Highway in Faizabad, resulting in significant traffic congestion for early morning commuters, including commuters going to work and school. The situation remains tense as authorities prepare for a possible escalation of protests.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced nationwide protests for “independence of the judiciary”, including a demonstration in Islamabad on October 4, despite a ban on public gatherings.

Demonstrations are also planned in Mianwali, Faisalabad and Bahawalpur along with a rally at Minar Pakistan in Lahore on October 5. This comes amidst a new law requiring permits for gatherings and allowing the government to designate ‘red zones’ where protests are prohibited.