Bus terminals in Islamabad and Rawalpindi are expected to face disruptions from Wednesday evening as authorities prepare to close major motorway routes ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest and planned long march.
According to transport service providers, several bus operators have started cancelling or rescheduling tickets for journeys planned from the evening of September 23 due to the announced motorway closures.
The M-1 motorway will be closed to all types of traffic, while the M-2 motorway will remain open for light traffic (LTV) for the time being.
Bus terminals may close after 8pm
Transport operators in the twin cities have reportedly informed passengers that bus terminals may close at different times after 8pm on Wednesday because of the restrictions on major routes.
Passengers travelling from Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been advised to confirm their bus schedules with transport companies before leaving for the terminals, particularly for services operating towards Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Several operators have reportedly cancelled evening departures because of uncertainty surrounding access to the motorways.
M-1 to close for all traffic
The M-1 connecting Islamabad with Peshawar is expected to be closed for all categories of traffic as part of the security arrangements.
The closure is likely to affect intercity bus and public transport services operating between Islamabad, Rawalpindi and destinations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
M-2 remains open for light vehicles
The M-2 motorway between Islamabad and Lahore will remain available for light traffic, while heavy transport vehicles (HTVs) will be restricted.
According to the announced schedule, the restrictions on HTVs are due to take effect from 11pm on September 23.
Authorities may impose further restrictions depending on the security situation, so motorists and passengers have been advised to check for the latest updates before travelling.
Travellers advised to check bus schedules
With motorway closures coinciding with increased security arrangements around Islamabad, passengers have been advised to contact their respective transport companies before heading to bus terminals.
Those planning to travel on Wednesday evening should also allow additional time and remain prepared for possible route changes or cancellations.
The restrictions are part of broader security arrangements ahead of the PTI’s planned September 27 long march towards Islamabad.
