Motorways and GT Road Closures Disrupt Traffic Across Punjab Amid PTI Protests

In a significant disruption to travel across Punjab, all sections of motorways and key points of the Grand Trunk (GT) Road have been closed due to the PTI protest scheduled for November 24, 2024. This has caused massive traffic jams and left commuters stranded for hours, with authorities urging the public to avoid these routes and consider alternatives.

Key Closures on GT Road

Several major sections of GT Road have been completely blocked with containers on both sides. Critical points affected include:

• Muridke to Jhelum
• Chenab River Bridge in Gujrat
• Sadhoke and Nandipur Check-posts
• Shahdara, Kamoke, Mandi Bahauddin, Narowal, Hafizabad, and Sheikhupura

These closures have led to severe congestion, bringing traffic to a standstill in many areas. Travelers heading to major cities such as Lahore, Gujranwala, and Islamabad are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and plan their journeys accordingly.

Motorway Closures for ‘Repair Work’

Simultaneously, authorities have issued a notification stating that several motorways are closed due to repair work from November 23 to 24. The following sections are affected:

• M1: Islamabad to Peshawar
• M2: Lahore to Islamabad
• M3: Lahore to Abdul Hakeem
• M4: Pindi Bhattian to Multan
• M11: Lahore-Sialkot Motorway
• M14: Islamabad-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway (Hakla to York)

This dual disruption—protest-related closures and maintenance work—has compounded difficulties for commuters.

Heavy Police Deployment and Public Advisory

Heavy police deployments, particularly around the Chenab River bridges, underscore the seriousness of the situation. The authorities have urged commuters to prioritize safety and avoid travel through affected areas unless absolutely necessary.

Travelers are advised to:

• Take alternate routes wherever possible.
• Stay updated on road conditions through local news or traffic advisories.
• Plan trips carefully to minimize delays and avoid heavily affected zones.

Impact on Daily Life

The closures have significantly disrupted daily life, hindering not only personal travel but also the movement of goods and services. Businesses relying on timely transportation are facing challenges, and the uncertainty regarding the resumption of normal traffic flow has added to public frustration.

Authorities have yet to announce a timeline for reopening the affected routes. Travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and adapt their plans in light of ongoing developments.

Afsheen Gohar

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