ISLAMABAD – Security lockdown in twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi looks far tighter and more expansive this time than the last round of US-Iran negotiations. Authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Sunday announced the suspension of all public, and goods transport services until further notice, deployed security apparatus in the twin cities while educational institutions shifted to online classes. Security was placed on high alert ahead of the expected next round of Iran–United States talks in the federal capital.
Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon confirmed the suspension of heavy and public transport across the capital in a post on X. “Heavy transport and public transport in the city are being suspended until further order. Citizens are requested to cooperate with the security agencies. Thank you,” he wrote.
In Rawalpindi, public, and goods transport services have also been suspended as part of security measures in view of the arrival of foreign delegations. Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema said, “All private, public and transport is hereby suspended with immediate effect. Further updates will be shared” in his post on X.
The Metro Bus Authority, in a statement, said the Red Metro Bus Service operating in the twin cities has been completely suspended from Sunday. The service will remain closed from Saddar Station in Rawalpindi to Pak Secretariat Station in Islamabad. The Bus Service will remain suspended in the twin cities until further orders. The decision has been implemented in accordance with the directives of the district administrations of both cities. SSP Operations Islamabad Ali Raza visited the Red Zone and various duty points. He conducted a detailed review of the security arrangements and issued instructions to the officers on duty regarding the proper performance of their duties, according to the Islamabad police on X.
According to officials, police personnel on duty will not be allowed to use mobile phones, and all deployed officers will be required to wear anti-riot gear. A total of 18,000 security personnel are expected to be deployed for the operation, with additional forces already having arrived from Punjab. Islamabad Police, Rangers and the Frontier Corps (FC) will also be deployed as part of the security arrangements.
The Islamabad administration has directed the managements of hostels for students and working individuals, as well as hotels, inns and guest houses, to close their premises and lock the buildings until further orders.
TRAFFIC ADVISORY
An alternative traffic plan has been issued in the federal capital in view of the arrival of foreign delegations. The Red Zone and Extended Red Zone will remain completely closed for all types of traffic. The Islamabad Expressway between Koral and Zero Point will also remain closed. Entry of all heavy transport into Islamabad from any direction has been suspended, and transporters have been directed to avoid travelling towards the capital during this period. Residents have been urged to strictly follow the diversion plan in case of road closures. Islamabad Police has also closed the entry at Jinnah Avenue near Khyber Plaza. Srinagar Highway has also been closed, while Club Road has been sealed from Kashmir Chowk.
Under the plan, residents of G-5, G-6, G-7, F-6 and F-7 can use Margalla Road and 9th Avenue for travel between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Traffic coming from Faisal Avenue towards Zero Point will be diverted to 9th Avenue. In case of closure between Zero Point and Koral Chowk, traffic will be diverted via Srinagar Highway to 9th Avenue, then through Stadium Road, Murree Road (Chandni Chowk) and Rawal Road towards Koral. Traffic police have been deployed at various points to assist citizens and manage traffic flow.
A complete ban has been imposed on drone flights, pigeon flying, and aerial firing. These measures are aimed at ensuring the security of aircraft carrying high-level foreign delegations. Security has been put on high alert on sensitive routes in Islamabad as well.
