Security has been beefed up in the capital and adjoining areas after the latest deadline given by Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) to the government for the implementation of its demands lapsed on Thursday.
A heavy contingent of law enforcement agencies has been deployed at the entry and exit points of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A joint flag-march of the LEAs was also held in the capital, according to a security official.
Meanwhile, TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi has escalated a protest he has been leading at Lahore's Data Darbar since April 2.
Pir Afzal Qadri, chairperson of the TLP, told party workers after the 4pm deadline lapsed today that they must "come out on the streets and not go back until Rizvi announces an end to the protest".
Following Qadri's orders, TLP workers have taken to the streets in various locales of Lahore. According to reports, they have also attempted to intimidate commuters and citizens with sticks and batons.
They have also blocked various key traffic intersections in Lahore, including the busy Thokar Niaz Beg.
Reports also state that the flow of traffic from Shahdara till the motorway has been choked considerably. There are also reports of clashes between TLP workers and commuters. Law enforcement agencies are reportedly present but are refraining from stepping in.
TLP leadership's words caused a chain reaction in Sahiwal where party workers created blockages on the Lahore-Multan motorway at Chichawatni bypass and near View Hotel at Lahore-Sahiwal bypass; they vowed to not end their sit-in until orders come from Lahore.