PTI Protest in Islamabad Costs Over Rs. 500 Million in Security Measures

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Islamabad: Security arrangements for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) three-day protest in the capital incurred expenses exceeding Rs. 500 million, straining the national treasury. The protest, which lasted from November 23 to November 26, required extensive resources to ensure public order and safety. Islamabad Police reported spending Rs. 33.28 crore on key items, including 35,000 tear gas shells, rubber bullets, and firearms. Additionally, Rs. 17 crore was allocated for meals, fuel, and other logistical expenses for a 12,000-strong force comprising personnel from Islamabad Police, Punjab Police, Sindh Police, and Frontier Constabulary.

To secure the city, authorities deployed over 800 containers at 24 key locations, sealing off critical entry points. The cost of renting these containers alone amounted to Rs. 7.28 crore, further adding to the financial burden. Police sources revealed that Rs. 11 crore was spent on purchasing rubber bullets and 2,500 specialized firearms used during the protests. The significant expenditure highlights the challenges faced in managing large-scale demonstrations in the capital, with the financial strain raising questions about the sustainability of such measures in future protests.