Federal Government Suspends Mobile and Internet Services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi Amid Security Threats

The federal government has suspended mobile and internet services across Islamabad and Rawalpindi due to heightened security concerns, according to an official notification issued on Friday by the Ministry of Interior.

In a letter addressed to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the ministry directed the immediate suspension of 3G and 4G services in the twin cities until further notice. The order was formally approved by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, citing potential threats to public safety and the need for precautionary measures to maintain law and order.

The PTA has been instructed to coordinate with the Commissioner and IGP Office of Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and the Commissioner and RPO Office of Rawalpindi to ensure complete compliance. The directive emphasized the importance of seamless inter-agency cooperation to prevent any security breaches during the period of suspension.

Alongside the digital communication blackout, Metro Bus services in Rawalpindi have also been halted. Major entry and exit routes between Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been sealed off, with a heavy police presence deployed across sensitive areas. The Traffic Police have issued an alternate traffic plan to facilitate commuters and manage congestion in key zones.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province for a period of ten days. The move, effective immediately, prohibits public gatherings, protests, and any activities that could disrupt peace.

According to the notification from the Punjab Home Department, credible intelligence reports from law enforcement agencies warned of a serious and imminent threat to public safety. The reports indicated possible terrorist activity by groups such as RAW, TTP, and BLA, as well as potential political and sectarian unrest.

The precautionary measures come a day after the Rawalpindi administration enforced a four-day Section 144 order to prevent the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) from carrying out its planned “Aqsa March” toward the US Embassy in Islamabad. The march was organized to protest American support for Israeli actions in Gaza.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as the security situation continues to be closely monitored. The suspension of services and movement restrictions are expected to remain in place until the threat subsides.