ISLAMABAD: Residents of Islamabad should brace for severe traffic disruption on Thursday due to VIP movements linked to the two-day Regional Transport Ministers’ Conference and ongoing cricket matches in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan is hosting the Regional Transport Ministers’ Conference (RTMC) on October 23–24, 2025, at the Jinnah Convention Centre, bringing together ministers and delegations from 27 countries.
WHICH ROUTES TO BE AFFECTED
Due to the movement of foreign delegations, traffic flow on major routes, including Islamabad Expressway, Srinagar Highway, Serena Chowk, Blue Area, and the Red Zone, is expected to remain affected from early morning.
Police officials said several roads would be temporarily closed for VIP movement, while security has been tightened with special checkpoints set up at Red Zone entry points.
In Rawalpindi, traffic congestion is also likely around the Cricket Stadium and Murree Road due to the ongoing cricket series. Travel time between the twin cities may almost double during peak hours.
Traffic police have advised citizens to leave early and keep an extra hour for their commute to offices and schools.
PUBLIC HOLIDAY RUMOURS
Authorities have dismissed social media rumours about a local holiday in the twin cities, saying schools will remain open and exams will continue as scheduled.
