PTI, PTA activists marching towards Islamabad: Report

Activists of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the Pakistani Awami Tehrik (PAT) are reportedly en route to national capital Islamabad to protest against alleged rigging in the 2013 general elections.

According to the Dawn, they are also expected to present their demands for electoral and administrative reform.

The government which was initially reluctant to allow the marchers finally gave its nod on Thursday evening, formally permitting the supporters and activists of both parties to march on the capital.

However, warnings were given to both parties not to cross established red lines.

The marchers were also told to stay away from Islamabad's Red Zone area.

Meanwhile, reports from Lahore indicate that political temparatures have subsided, and that the overall law and order situation remains calm.

Lahore Police have removed barricades to allow the PTI and PTA leaders and activists to go ahead with their march towards Islamabad.

Earlier, key areas of the city such as Model Town, Faisal Town, and Garden Town remained completely sealed till Thursday noon along with suspension of cell phone services.

Later, thousands of PAT activists led by their leader Tahir-ul-Qadri left for Islamabad through D-Block Model Town and on to Ferozpure Road.