RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD: As the twin cities begin a slow transition back to normalcy following a week of high-stakes diplomacy, the district administration has announced a partial restoration of public transit services.
While the departure of international delegations has allowed for the easing of several movement restrictions, the capital’s security posture remains cautious, with key hubs still under strategic closure.
In a from of somewhat relief for commuters, the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Metro Bus Service has been partially restored. Buses are now operational from Saddar Station to Shaheed-e-Millat, reconnecting the heart of Rawalpindi with the capital’s commercial areas.
However, the service remains suspended from Parade Ground to the Pak Secretariat to maintain the integrity of the high-security zone surrounding government installations.
Complementing this, the Green Bus Service in Rawalpindi and the city’s electric bus fleet have returned to full functionality, offering much-needed mobility to residents who have faced a near-total transport blackout since the arrival of the US and Iranian teams.
Despite the reopening of intra-city routes, the administration has decided to keep the Pir Wadhai and Faizabad Truck Terminals closed for the time being. These facilities, which serve as major transit points for heavy vehicles and inter-city goods transport, are being maintained as “sterile zones” while security officials conduct post-summit sweeps and monitor for any residual risks.
It is important to mention here that while major arterial roads like the Srinagar Highway and Sowan Bridge have largely been cleared for light traffic, travelers are advised that security checkpoints remain active. In the event of any suspicious activity or transit emergencies, citizens are urged to contact 15 immediately.
Background:
The current measures are a direct carry-over from the unprecedented security lockdown initiated last week. The twin cities were effectively sealed to provide a “fortress” environment for the high-level peace talks hosted by Pakistan. During that period, every major entry point—from Chok Pindori to Kachehri Chowk—was barricaded, and residents were forced to navigate complex village diversions through Adiala and Sagri to reach the airport.
While the “Diplomatic Lockdown” is officially easing, the staggered reopening of the Metro service and the continued closure of truck terminals indicate that authorities are opting for a “phased return” to prevent sudden congestion and ensure a secure environment as the last of the international support staff conclude their operations. Unnecessary travel to the Red Zone and adjacent areas is still discouraged as the administration evaluates the next phase of the reopening.
Islamabad retains traffic curbs around Red zone amid extended ceasefire
