Pakistan, Sept. 18 -- The government has decided to seal all five routes leading to Islamabad's Red Zone ahead of possible protests and long marches. The extended Red Zone will also remain sealed, with access allowed only during emergencies. Authorities are strengthening security as several groups prepare for planned demonstrations.

Two layers of shipping containers will block each of the five routes leading towards the Red Zone. A heavy police presence will also guard the blocked routes to prevent protesters from entering the high-security area. Authorities have already placed containers around the Red Zone and moved additional barriers to entry points.

Security measures have intensified ahead of planned protests by Jamaat-e-Islami, Pa...