Islamabad: Islamabad Police have reportedly stepped up preparations ahead of a possible Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for September 27, with security measures being intensified in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

According to police sources, a large-scale crackdown against PTI workers has reportedly been initiated in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Lists of PTI workers have reportedly been provided to police stations as part of preparations for maintaining law and order.

Police sources said preparations for possible road closures had also begun, with efforts under way to arrange and deploy containers at strategic locations.

According to sources, postings and transfers of police officers have also been made in view of the anticipated protest activity.

Additional police personnel are expected to be requisitioned from other provinces to strengthen security arrangements in the federal capital.

Police sources said all possible measures would be taken to prevent protesters from entering Islamabad.

The sources added that water cannons and rubber bullets could be used if the situation required such measures, while security arrangements would be adjusted according to the prevailing law-and-order situation.

The Red Zone is expected to be secured through a three-layer security arrangement to protect sensitive government installations and key locations.

According to police sources, the Inspector General of Islamabad Police has already issued directions during a security meeting regarding preparations for the possible protest.

The IG Islamabad is expected to monitor the situation through the newly established Command, Control, Communication and Coordination Centre.

Police sources said the command centre had been equipped with modern facilities and connected with the Safe City system to facilitate real-time monitoring and coordination of the security situation.

Authorities are expected to continue reviewing security arrangements as the proposed protest date approaches.