Rawalpindi/Islamabad/Lahore, October 12, 2025: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Sunday urged the leadership of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) to call off its ongoing march towards Islamabad, appealing to the religio-political party to stand with the government and armed forces amid the prevailing national challenges.
Speaking to the media, Sanaullah said several political and religious parties had voiced concern over the TLP’s demonstrations, stressing that unity among the country’s political leadership was essential in the current situation. He added that both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir had taken a strong stance on the Gaza conflict, where a ceasefire was achieved through Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts.
As the TLP convoy advanced from Lahore to Islamabad, authorities began partially reopening roads in the twin cities. Mobile internet services were also partially restored in some areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Traffic situation and security measures
The Rawalpindi Traffic Police issued a revised traffic plan, stating that out of 43 previously blocked locations, six have been fully reopened and 35 partially cleared. Faizabad, however, remains completely closed for the third consecutive day.
According to the police spokesperson, Murree Road, Mall Road, and Peshawar Road are now open with smooth traffic flow. Khanna Pul, Kurri Road, Jhelum Road, Kacheri Chowk, and Sawan Bridge are also operational, while movement continues along Old Airport Road, Adiala Road, Kalma Chowk, and Chakri Road.
The Chakri Interchange, Fateh Jang Toll Plaza, and Thalian Interchange are open to commuters, and traffic is moving normally at Chungi No. 26, T-Chowk Rawat, and across all tehsils of Rawalpindi.
In Islamabad, Red Zone entry points remain sealed, with only Margalla Road open for access. Suharwardy Road (Serena to Aabpara) and the route from Jinnah Square Flyover to Serena Hotel are closed. However, Jinnah Avenue, Seventh Avenue, Expressway (Zero Point to Khanna), and routes from Korang to Bani Gala remain accessible.
Islamabad DIG Muhammad Jawad Tariq visited Faizabad to review the law and order situation, assuring that peace and security will be maintained at all costs. Heavy traffic entry into Islamabad remains suspended, with diversions in place.
Motorists from Rawal Dam Chowk heading to Rawalpindi have been advised to use Park Road, while those going to the airport should use Kashmir Chowk and Srinagar Highway. Residents of I-8 are advised to use Zero Point, Club Road, and Park Road, while travelers from Koral should opt for Khanna Pul, Lehtrar Road, Tramri Chowk, and Rawal Dam Chowk.
Clashes in Lahore
In Lahore, violent clashes between TLP protesters and police left 112 police personnel injured and led to the arrest of more than 100 protesters, according to DIG Operations Faisal Kamran. Protesters reportedly vandalized the Shahdara Town police station and damaged public and private property.
Talks underway between govt and TLP
Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) leader Liaqat Baloch held a telephonic conversation with Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, discussing the ongoing TLP protest and its impact on the province. Baloch urged the government to open dialogue with the protesters to achieve a peaceful resolution.
A TLP spokesperson confirmed that talks between the group’s central committee and the federal government were ongoing, and instructed party workers to await further direction from the central leadership.
According to sources, the government’s negotiating team — comprising Rana Sanaullah, Khawaja Salman Rafiq, and Tahir Ashrafi — has made progress on some issues, though differences persist on others.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the government sought a peaceful settlement but would not be “blackmailed by mobs,” accusing the TLP of politicizing sensitive religious issues for gain.
