In a bid to avoid any untoward incident on the occasion of Independence Day (August 14), mobile phone services will remain suspended in the federal capital and parts of Rawalpindi, we have checked with sources familiar with the development.
This will not be the first time that cellular services are going to remain suspended in Islamabad and adjoining Rawalpindi.
Just earlier this year, in March, cellular services were suspended in twin cities for Pakistan Day parade rehearsals and then on March 23rd as well.
Senior officials of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed ProPakistani that the Ministry of Interior has forwarded a letter to PTA to get cellular services suspended in Islamabad on the occasion of Independence Day.
District Administration of Islamabad Capital Territory had earlier recommended Interior Ministry to suspend the mobile networks on the Independence Day between 0600 hours to 1200 hours.
Sources said that the mobile phone service suspension is part of security measures for Independence Day celebrations planned in the federal capital.
Militants often detonate bombs using cell phones and the government has implemented similar service suspensions in the past to avert any such incidents.
Preparations are underway across the country to celebrate the Independence Day on 14th August in a befitting manner. Houses, streets and bazaars are being decorated with buntings, banners and national flags.
Special stalls have been set up in markets and bazaars for sale of national flags and green caps, which are making roaring business.
Various political, educational, social and literary organizations are chalking out programmes and functions to celebrate the event.
