PTI Protest Delay May Push Islamabad Security Bill Above PKR 1 Billion
PTI’s decision to postpone its Islamabad march to October 4 could extend security arrangements and push government spending beyond PKR 1 billion.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has postponed its planned long march to Islamabad from September 27 to October 4, extending the period for which authorities have been preparing heightened security measures. The delay could push the capital’s security bill beyond PKR 1 billion, according to police sources cited by Dawn.
Islamabad police had initially requested around PKR 820 million for a week of preparations, covering container rentals, accommodation, food and transportation for personnel brought in from other provinces. The authorities had arranged 1,550 containers, whose rental cost alone is estimated at PKR 46.5 million per day, or PKR 651 million for two weeks.
Security preparations also include personnel deployments, transport and hotel accommodation. Around 2,000 Sindh Police personnel have reached Islamabad, while 16,000 personnel from Punjab were requested. Police have also arranged vehicles and hotel rooms for officers involved in the operation.
The authorities had already imposed Section 144 in Islamabad for two months, restricting gatherings, rallies and demonstrations. Punjab has also sought Rangers deployment in several districts through October 5 amid preparations for the protest.
The postponement means existing arrangements may have to remain in place for another week, increasing pressure on public finances. With thousands of containers and vehicles tied up for the security operation, the delayed protest is proving expensive even before the march begins.
