Twin Cities Face Third Day of Disruptions as Protests Continue in Rawalpindi and Islamabad

The twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are experiencing their third straight day of disruptions as protests by a religious group continue to paralyze traffic and daily life. Key roads connecting the two cities remain blocked, while the metro bus service — a primary mode of transport for thousands of commuters — remains suspended until further notice.

The ongoing demonstrations have created widespread inconvenience for citizens, many of whom have reported being unable to reach workplaces, schools, or hospitals. Long queues of vehicles have been observed on major arteries as authorities continue to manage traffic diversions and roadblocks.

Current Situation in Rawalpindi

In Rawalpindi, authorities have reopened routes leading to residential areas and removed barriers from several internal roads near Murree Road. However, key connecting routes between Rawalpindi and Islamabad — including Murree Road, Faizabad, IJP Road, and Islamabad Expressway — remain either closed or partially blocked, causing severe congestion in nearby localities.

Access to Islamabad International Airport has also been partially restricted, forcing many passengers to walk long distances to reach terminals. The disruption has particularly impacted patients and ambulances, with delays reported in reaching hospitals and medical facilities.

Traffic and Transport Updates

According to the Motorway Police, traffic flow between Lahore and Islamabad has resumed following the reopening of the M2 Motorway. Additionally, Islamabad Expressway has been partially opened, and the route connecting 9th Avenue to Double Road has been cleared for limited movement. However, the Faizabad interchange — a central point connecting the twin cities — remains sealed from the Rawalpindi side due to ongoing demonstrations.

Authorities have urged citizens to avoid protest-hit areas, follow official traffic advisories, and use alternate routes where possible. Residents have also been advised to stay updated through official police and city administration channels for real-time traffic updates.

Public Reaction and Administrative Measures

Frustration among residents continues to grow as schools, offices, and businesses struggle to operate amid the ongoing blockades. Many commuters have taken to social media to express concerns over the lack of mobility and extended travel times.

City authorities and law enforcement agencies remain on alert, maintaining a visible presence at sensitive intersections to prevent further escalation. Efforts are underway to restore normal traffic flow and negotiate peaceful resolutions with protest organizers.

Afsheen Gohar

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