Ahead of New Year celebrations 31 Dec 2025 to 1 Jan 2026 the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in specific districts to maintain law and order public safety and crowd control. Authorities have implemented these preventive measures to avoid accidents unruly behavior and unsafe gatherings during the festive period
Districts Where Section 144 Is Enforced
| City / Area | Duration | Key Restrictions / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rawalpindi | 25 Dec 2025 to 1 Jan 2026 | Ban on public gatherings rallies sit ins weapons display motorcycle pillion riding loudspeakers aerial firing and fireworks prohibited |
| Murree | 31 Dec 2025 to 1 Jan 2026 | Only families allowed in tourist areas Mall Road G P Chowk ban on aerial firing fireworks alcohol and street altercations |
Key Restrictions Under Section 144
Under Section 144 residents in the affected districts are prohibited from organizing or participating in public gatherings of four or more people including rallies and sit ins. Carrying weapons aerial firing and fireworks is strictly banned. Traffic rules are enforced including restrictions on motorcycle pillion riding and in Murree only families are allowed in high traffic tourist areas like Mall Road and G P Chowk
Purpose and Importance
The enforcement of Section 144 in Rawalpindi and Murree is a proactive measure by the Punjab government to ensure safe and orderly New Year celebrations. The objectives include reducing the risk of crowd related accidents preventing incidents involving firearms or fireworks and maintaining overall law and order for residents and tourists visiting popular locations