Authorities placed shipping containers on major roads in Peshawar on Sunday as security was tightened following the imposition of an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Key routes leading to the provincial assembly and the Red Zone were blocked, while police personnel were deployed at important locations across the city. Several major roads faced restrictions, disrupting movement and access to government offices. The Bus Rapid Transit service was also temporarily suspended, according to local reports.

The security measures came after President Asif Ali Zardari declared an emergency in the province, suspending the PTI-led provincial government and placing provincial affairs under the governor with an advisory council initially expected to serve for six months.

The federal government said the decision was prompted by worsening militancy and what it described as inadequate provincial action against terrorism. PTI rejected the move, with party spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari calling it a disguised coup and warning it could deepen political instability.

The developments come as PTI supporters continue preparations for a protest march demanding the release of party founder Imran Khan. Authorities have increased security amid concerns about possible demonstrations and clashes.