Saturday has been declared by authorities as a public holiday in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This decision has been taken in the light of the ongoing US-Iran dialogue taking place in the federal capital.
Similar decision was taken for earlier closures on April 9 and 10. The extension of closures ensures smooth security arrangements especially during the movement of foreign delegations.
Despite the closures, services that are essential remain completely operational. Emergency Departments, hospitals and critical public services are continuing to keep functioning across both twin cities. This will help citizens access their needs in the case of an emergency.
Due to the closures key commercial areas along Airport Road, Murree Road and Peshawar Road have been shut. Similarly, most shops, markets and bazaars have also been closed in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
The petrol pumps in these areas of Rawalpindi have also temporarily been closed. No petrol pumps however have been closed in Islamabad.
Partial suspension of public transport has also taken place. The major bus terminals on Peshawar Road are closed. Soan and Pirwadhai’s bus stations are operating at limited capacity.
At many points in twin cities movement restrictions have also been imposed. This includes check posts making sure that no vehicle is suspicious.
The security across Islamabad and Rawalpindi remains on high alert. Throughout the twin cities more than 5,000 police personnel have been deployed. The senior officials are also very much involved in overseeing operations from a control and central command room.
Search Operation, surveillance and intelligence-based activities have been intensified and security around key installations and routes has been further strengthened.
It has been emphasised by the authorities that these measures are necessary and temporary to ensure the visiting delegations are safe and to maintain order during the high level talks.
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