Web Desk: Pakistani authorities placed the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi under a high-security lockdown Sunday as foreign delegations arrived for a critical second round of US-Iran peace negotiations.
The stringent measures prompted the immediate suspension of nearly all public and private transport, leaving thousands of commuters stranded despite official efforts to maintain essential services.
Police personnel numbering over 10,000 deployed across Rawalpindi alone, establishing more than 600 checkpoints to monitor entry and exit points. Security forces positioned snipers on rooftops and mobilized elite commandos to secure the movement of high-level officials from the Nur Khan Airbase to the federal capital.
The security plan initially targeted heavy vehicles and intercity bus terminals, which will remain closed until April 26. However, the restrictions expanded Sunday to include private cars and goods transport along the Islamabad Expressway and the Red Zone.
Although the Islamabad administration previously denied claims of a total shutdown, local police confirmed that key arteries like the Srinagar Highway and Murree Road now face periodic closures to accommodate diplomatic convoys.
While the Rawalpindi district administration suspended general public transport, the Metro Bus Service initially continued operations to provide a lifeline between the twin cities. Commuters reported significant delays as security teams conducted thorough identification checks at major bus stations.
The negotiations, moderated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir, aim to stabilize a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. Previous sessions in April addressed sanctions relief and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, though a final deal remains elusive.
Officials urged citizens to monitor official traffic channels and utilize alternate routes through 9th Avenue and Margalla Road to avoid the heavily restricted diplomatic enclaves.
