Traffic jams in Lahore as Qadri-led alliance prepares for protest rally

LAHORE: The Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) has started preparations for its rally scheduled to be held on Wednesday at the city’s Mall Road, aimed at forcing resignations from the ruling party for their alleged involvement in the Model Town incident.

Tankers and cranes have also been transported to the venue outside the Punjab Assembly, and a grand stage is being set.

Traffic on routes connecting to Mall Road as well as other main arteries of the city like Kacheri Road and Hall Road has been severely affected.

Punjab government to provide full security for rally

The Government of Punjab decided Monday night to offer full-fledged security to the participants of a sit-in, according to sources.

On the day of the protest, strict checking will be conducted at the city's entry and exit points, sources in the provincial government added, explaining that police officers on duty will remain unarmed.

Police personnel from adjoining cities will also be called on duty in order to provide additional security to the protesters on a larger scale.

PAT against ruling party

It is noteworthy that earlier this month, PAT chief Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri had announced to start a campaign against Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) government, starting January 17.

Almost all parties of the opposition, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have already disclosed their decision to join PAT's protest.

Qadri had underscored that the demand is not just limited to resignations of the chief minister and law minister now, but removing the PML-N in its entirety.

"We need to end the enemies of humanity and tyrannical rule, eliminate PML-N; it will now be the public's hand tugging at the collars of these leaders."

According to Qadri, invitations to join the January 17 protest have been extended to Pak Sarzameen Party chief Mustafa Kamal, and leaders of various other political parties.