Islamabad, Rawalpindi: Twin cities remain on high alert ahead of anticipated Iran-US talks

ISLAMABAD: The twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi remained on high alert on Monday for the second consecutive day, with heavy deployment of security personnel, road closures, and suspension of goods and public transport due to the arrival of foreign delegations for the expected Iran–United States talks. The Red Zone and its extended areas were completely sealed for all kinds of traffic, while several other roads across the city also remained closed due to VVIP movement from Nur Khan Airbase, Chaklala. Security was significantly tightened across both cities, with more than 16, 000 personnel deployed in Islamabad, including troops from the Pakistan Army, Rangers, Frontier Constabulary, Islamabad Police, Punjab Police, as well as traffic and motorway police. Additional forces were stationed at entry and exit points, sensitive installations, and key routes leading to the Red Zone, including roads connecting Islamabad International Airport and Nur Khan Airbase. The army was deployed in and around the Red Zone and other high-security installations. At least 67 points in and around the Red Zone and its extended areas were blocked with barriers. The inner security cordon, including key routes, was managed by the Security Division. From Koral to Faizabad (Service Road West) and from Faizabad to Faizia (Service Road East), service roads and streets were cleared, while markets, marriage halls, and shops along these routes remained closed under strict security arrangements. Armed Rangers have also been deployed at high-rise buildings at different points. Rawalpindi police devised a special security plan and deployed over 10, 000 officers and personnel, establishing more than 600 special pickets for close monitoring of all entry and exit routes of the city. Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) also issued a comprehensive alternate traffic plan on Monday in view of the arrival of foreign delegations and strict security measures. According to the plan, the Red Zone and the extended Red Zone remain completely closed to all types of traffic. The Expressway from Koral to Zero Point also remains shut for all traffic, while traffic on the Srinagar Highway may be stopped at different times. Entry of all kinds of heavy traffic into Islamabad from any direction or highway has been completely prohibited. Owners of heavy vehicles have been advised to avoid travelling towards Islamabad during these days to prevent inconvenience. Residents have been urged to follow alternate routes in case of road closures. People living in sectors G-5, G-6, G-7, F-6, and F-7 can use Margalla Road and 9th Avenue for travel to and from Rawalpindi. Traffic moving towards Zero Point via Faisal Avenue is being diverted to 9th Avenue. In case of closure from Zero Point to Koral Chowk, commuters are advised to use Srinagar Highway to access 9th Avenue and then reach Rawalpindi via Stadium Road, Murree Road (Chandni Chowk), and Rawal Road to proceed towards Koral. If Club Road is closed from Park Road, traffic will be diverted towards Tramri Chowk. Citizens travelling between Bhara Kahu and Rawalpindi have been advised to use Korang Road, Bani Gala, and Lehtrar Road. People commuting between Rawalpindi Saddar and Islamabad have been asked to use Colonel Sher Khan Road via Faqir Aipi Road or 9th Avenue as alternate routes Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Muhammad Sarfraz Virk visited various duty points across the city to review traffic and security arrangements. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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