The Orange Line Train service in Lahore has been temporarily suspended following planned protests in the provincial capital on Friday. However, the normal service is expected to resume on Saturday.
The suspension follows the Punjab government’s decision to impose Section 144 across the province, citing security concerns and the threat of terrorism.
Section 144 prohibits all forms of public gatherings — including protests, rallies, and sit-ins — and will remain in effect until Saturday, October 18. A spokesperson from the Punjab Home Department stated that the law also bans gatherings of more than four people in public places, the display of weapons, the use of loudspeakers, and the distribution of provocative or sectarian content.
However, exemptions have been made for funerals, weddings, and official government duties.
In addition to the Orange Line suspension, Metro Bus service has also been partially restricted. Buses are only operating between Gajjumata and MAO College.
Meanwhile, the Punjab cabinet has approved a formal ban on the religious-political party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following violent protests linked to the Gaza conflict. Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari confirmed the decision during a press conference, condemning TLP’s disruptive behavior during recent demonstrations.
