Thousands of supporters of Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan have gathered in the capital Islamabad to demand the release of Imran Khan, the resignation of the government and the repeal of the 26th Amendment to the Constitution. Many of them have reached D-Chowk, the epicenter of the protest.
Paramilitary forces deployed on various important roads of Islamabad were seen standing in line. Water cannons have also been kept ready. Islamabad has practically become a 'container city' to prevent Imran supporters.
Barricades have been built across the capital using around 700 shipping containers. Internet services have been suspended in some areas. Schools and colleges have been closed due to fear of violence.
Pakistan's government is determined to stop the protesters. A huge police force was already deployed. Traffic restrictions were imposed on several important roads, with some roads closed.
As news spread that protesters were advancing towards Islamabad, police blocked several other important roads on Monday. Several officials were shifted to different parts of the city.
News media Geo TV reported that after Imran's supporters reached Islamabad, members of law and order forces fired tear gas at them. At that time they threw bricks at the law enforcement forces.
The army has been deployed to prevent Imran's supporters from entering key government infrastructure in the capital.
As the situation in Islamabad deteriorated, Shehbaz Sharif's government deployed the army there under Article 245 of the Constitution.
The Express Tribune reported that a huge convoy led by Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi arrived at Zero Point in Islamabad. After they reached there tear gas was fired at them. On the other hand, Imran's supporters were seen pelting bricks at law enforcement personnel.