Pakistan on lockdown

[link to www.bbc.co.uk]

Pakistan has deployed thousands of security personnel and set up roadblocks ahead of a march on the capital by anti-government protesters.

The rally was called by opposition politician Imran Khan who wants PM Nawaz Sharif to resign for failing to probe fraud in last year's polls.

Anti-government cleric Tahirul Qadri also called on supporters to rally, leading to fears of clashes.

Tens of thousands of security personnel have been deployed in the capital Islamabad and in cities across Punjab province.

Roadblocks have been placed on all major entry and exit points to the two cities. The mobile phone network has also been partially suspended.

Marchers in both camps are angry about the sinking economy, the uncontrolled growth of militancy, and core services such as the electricity supply which has nearly ground to a halt.