The Civil Secretariat in Peshawar has reportedly been vacated following security concerns, with all employees directed to leave the premises, according to sources.
Security has been placed on high alert across Peshawar amid fears of possible terrorist activity, police said.
Authorities have increased security around government buildings, offices and other sensitive installations across the city as part of precautionary measures.
According to police, entry of the general public has also been restricted at the Police Lines in Peshawar following the heightened security situation.
According to sources, the Excise Office on Shami Road, as well as the Health Department, Information Department and other offices on Warsak Road, have also been closed.
The Civil Secretariat houses the offices of secretaries and officials from around 36 provincial departments. However, the Chief Secretary’s Office remains open, while offices of other departments, except the Establishment and Administration Department, have been closed.
Sources said security measures were taken at the Civil Secretariat amid a possible threat of a suicide attack. There are also concerns about a possible attack during Friday prayers at mosques located within the Finance Department and Planning & Development (P&D) Department.
According to sources, various provincial departments have been given an immediate holiday due to the security threat. However, no detailed official statement regarding the security concerns has been issued so far.
Movement has been restricted at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly amid heightened security concerns, with entry to and exit from the assembly building temporarily suspended.
The main gate of the provincial assembly has been closed, while employees have been instructed to remain inside their respective offices. People who have already left the assembly building have also reportedly been barred from returning to the premises for the time being. Authorities have tightened security measures around the assembly in view of the prevailing security situation.
Officials have stepped up security measures at key locations across the provincial capital and are closely monitoring the situation. Further details regarding the nature of the security threat were not immediately available.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel during the heightened security alert.