Peshawar experienced extensive road blockades, severe movement restrictions, and telecommunication shutdowns following the imposition of governor’s rule and a state of emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a report by Dawn.
What happened
The city saw widespread disruption as security forces placed shipping containers and barricades across major thoroughfares. The security setup coincided with a complete mobile phone signal blackout in the morning, followed by an internet outage in the afternoon. Local public transport was also halted, with Peshawar Bus Transit (BRT) stations remaining shut.
Key facts
According to Dawn, key operational details and security measures included:
- Shipping containers blocked GT Road at Firdous Chowk, University Road at Tehkal, as well as Stadium Chowk and Arbab Road.
- Large police contingents were posted at key intersections, including Surey Pul Square, Amn Chowk, and along GT Road between Hospital Road and Firdous Chowk.
- Access to the Red Zone and Khyber Road was closed off. Armoured personnel carriers, prison vans, and trucks carrying riot police were deployed near the Chief Minister House, Governor’s House, and central jail.
- The Civil Secretariat remained virtually deserted, while tight security checkpoints were established along Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum Road to inspect passersby.
- Pedestrians were turned back at several locations, including near the MPA Hostel, and redirected toward alternate routes such as Shoba Bazaar.
Why it matters
According to Dawn, Peshawar has historically maintained political stability despite enduring decades of regional violence. However, the unexpected imposition of governor's rule and emergency measures disrupted daily movement and brought severe uncertainty to the provincial capital. Specific government reasons for imposing the emergency and the duration of these restrictions are not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Source: Dawn - Home · Published October 12, 2026 · Photo by Umar Hayat on Unsplash