Authorities in Dera Ismail Khan, a city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, have imposed Section 144 following growing security concerns and a deteriorating law-and-order situation in the district. The move was announced by local administration officials in an effort to prevent potential unrest and maintain public safety. According to an official notification issued by the district administration, the restrictions will remain in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., during which the movement of passenger vehicles, cargo transport and motorcycles will be prohibited in several sensitive areas of the city. The measures are intended to reduce public gatherings and limit movement in areas considered vulnerable to security threats.

Authorities have also ordered the closure of several major roads and link routes, including parts of the Dera-Tank Road, as well as other key roads connecting nearby localities. In addition, markets in some areas—such as Pota Hathala Bazaar—will remain closed during the restriction period to minimise crowding and maintain control over the security situation.

Despite the restrictions, emergency and essential services such as ambulances, fire brigade vehicles and law enforcement operations will be allowed to operate normally. Officials have also instructed residents to carry identification documents while travelling and to comply with instructions issued by security personnel.

Local authorities said the precautionary steps were necessary to prevent any untoward incidents amid rising tensions and security threats in the region. The district administration has urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and follow the restrictions until the situation stabilises.

The imposition of Section 144 reflects ongoing security challenges in north-western Pakistan, where authorities frequently impose temporary restrictions to maintain order and prevent violence in sensitive districts. 

This image is taken from The tribunes.