Extraordinary security arrangements in Rawalpindi and Islamabad left residents confined to their homes on Thursday as authorities sealed multiple areas ahead of crucial talks between the United States and Iran in the federal capital.
Major roads, including Old Airport Road and routes leading to Nur Khan Airbase, were blocked using containers and barbed wire, severely restricting movement and disrupting daily life across several neighbourhoods.
Key Areas Sealed, Movement Restricted
Localities including Shah Khalid Colony, Gulzar-e-Quaid, Airport Housing Society, Mangtal Town and Faisal Colony were completely sealed, with residents reporting they were unable to leave their homes.
Even service roads and internal streets were blocked, forcing people indoors without prior notice. Authorities imposed strict checks at entry and exit points, turning entire neighbourhoods into high-security zones.
Residents described the situation as “like a prison”, with limited access to basic necessities.
Traffic Chaos Across the Twin Cities
The closure of key arteries from Rahimabad to Koral Chowk triggered severe traffic congestion across the twin cities. Major choke points such as Murree Road, Committee Chowk, Marrir Chowk, Saddar and Fawwara Chowk witnessed long traffic jams.
Public transport was also affected. Commuters using electric buses were dropped far from their destinations, forcing many — including women and children — to walk long distances.
The Metro Bus Service remained partially suspended, while several bus routes were closed for multiple days.
Residents Face Shortages, Hardships
The sudden lockdown caused significant difficulties for residents, particularly in accessing food, water and medicines.
“We were not informed in advance. There was no time to store essentials,” said a resident of Shah Khalid Colony.
Another resident reported difficulties in arranging water supply due to blocked roads, while others complained about rising prices of essential goods in local markets.
Students appearing in matriculation exams were also affected, with many returning home on foot due to transport disruptions.
Residents urged authorities to provide alternative access routes and emergency services, including mobile health units for patients.
Traders and Transport Services Affected
The district administration directed traders in Saddar and areas around Old Airport Road to keep shops closed for two days due to security concerns.
Transport operations were also curtailed, with bus terminals temporarily shut and strict checking implemented across the district.
Officials from the Regional Transport Authority confirmed that several routes would remain suspended until clearance from the administration.
Massive Security Deployment in Place
A spokesman for Rawalpindi police said the entire district had been placed on high alert, with over 5,000 personnel deployed across the city.
More than 350 special police pickets were established, with strict monitoring at all entry and exit points. Elite Force, Dolphin Force and other quick response units were also deployed for patrol duties.
Security was further tightened around sensitive installations, government buildings and key locations.
Officials said the measures were aimed at ensuring foolproof security for visiting foreign delegations and preventing any untoward incident.
Situation Linked to High-Level Diplomatic Engagement
Authorities confirmed that the heightened security was in response to the presence of foreign delegations for high-level talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad.
Search and intelligence-based operations were intensified, while surveillance through Safe City cameras continued round the clock to monitor the situation.
Conclusion
The strict security lockdown in Rawalpindi and Islamabad highlights the scale of arrangements made for sensitive diplomatic engagements. While officials maintain that the measures are necessary for ensuring safety, the restrictions have caused widespread disruption and hardship for residents.
As talks continue, citizens hope for an early restoration of normalcy and improved coordination to minimise inconvenience in future situations.