Mohsin Siddiqui (Chief Reporter)
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced on Saturday that its offices in Islamabad will be closed from October 14 to 16 due to security measures for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.
The closure aims to ensure the safety and smooth functioning of the international event, which will be held in Islamabad on October 15 and 16. According to a circular released by PIA, employees who work shifts at the airport will continue their duties, while the offices will remain closed to the public.
The decision to close PIA offices in Islamabad is part of broader security preparations for the SCO summit, an important international event bringing together heads of state and delegations from member countries. The Pakistani government is implementing extensive security measures in the capital to ensure a peaceful and orderly event. As part of these precautions, access to the Red Zone area, which houses key government buildings and diplomatic missions, has been restricted to the general public from October 12 to 17.
Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been enforced in Islamabad and neighboring Rawalpindi during this period. Under Section 144, public gatherings, protests, and any unauthorized activities are prohibited to minimize security risks. This move comes as part of a broader effort to maintain law and order in the region, especially with foreign dignitaries and international delegations expected to arrive for the summit. The enforcement of these measures reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the security of the attendees and the general public.
In addition to PIA’s decision to close its offices, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has also announced a three-day closure from October 14 to 16. The closure will affect the principal seat of the Supreme Court in Islamabad, while the provincial registries in other cities will remain operational. The Supreme Court’s decision follows an official notification issued by the Cabinet Division, underscoring the significance of the security measures being implemented for the SCO summit.
The Supreme Court has clarified that the closure aligns with the rules governing the court’s operations, given the anticipated security requirements for the international event. With many important foreign dignitaries and high-profile guests arriving in the capital, restricting access to sensitive areas such as the Supreme Court premises is seen as a necessary precaution. The closures will help ensure that security forces can effectively manage the event without distractions or additional security concerns.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a significant regional organization that focuses on political, economic, and security-related matters. It comprises eight member states, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and Central Asian nations such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The summit provides a platform for these nations to discuss regional challenges, strengthen cooperation, and enhance their collective response to common issues like terrorism, trade, and regional development.
This year’s SCO summit holds special importance for Pakistan, as it offers the country an opportunity to engage in diplomatic dialogue with key regional powers and present itself as an important player in South Asia and Central Asia. The event is expected to draw attention to Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability, economic connectivity, and counter-terrorism efforts. Hosting the summit also gives Pakistan a chance to demonstrate its capacity to organize and manage high-profile international events, thereby enhancing its diplomatic image.
The security arrangements for the SCO summit are likely to have a significant impact on daily life in Islamabad. The enforcement of Section 144 and restrictions on access to key areas will mean a higher level of security checks and road closures, potentially causing disruptions to regular traffic and commuting. Residents and commuters are advised to be aware of the restrictions in place and plan their travel accordingly to avoid delays.
Businesses operating in the Red Zone area may also experience disruptions due to restricted access and heightened security protocols. The closure of PIA offices, as well as the Supreme Court’s principal seat, will affect those seeking services during this period. However, essential operations at the airport will continue, and alternative arrangements have been made to ensure that vital services are maintained.
Despite the closure of its offices, PIA is taking steps to ensure that its operations continue smoothly during the summit. Employees working at the airport will remain on duty, handling flight operations, customer services, and other essential tasks. The airline is committed to minimizing any inconvenience to passengers and has put in place contingency measures to handle increased security checks and other challenges that may arise during the event.
PIA’s decision to close its offices is in line with the government’s overall security strategy for the summit. By limiting non-essential activities, the airline aims to contribute to the security and safety of the event. The coordination between the airline, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders is crucial to maintaining a secure environment and ensuring the successful organization of the SCO summit.
The SCO summit, additional measures have been implemented across Islamabad. Security forces have increased their presence in key areas, and surveillance has been intensified. The authorities are closely monitoring potential security threats and have taken proactive steps to prevent any disruptions.
In addition to the deployment of law enforcement personnel, intelligence agencies are on high alert, and special security arrangements have been made for the hotels where foreign delegates will be staying. The government has also issued directives for public institutions and private organizations to cooperate fully with security protocols and follow any additional guidelines issued during the summit period.
