Islamabad is on lockdown as authorities sealed 24 key points across the city on Saturday, creating chaos for commuters and residents. Containers and barricades placed on major routes ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest planned for November 24 (Sunday), with stringent security measures in place.
Islamabad Blocked Roads and Traffic Diversion
Key entry and exit points, including Rawat T-Chowk, Iran Avenue, Chungi No. 26, Khanna Pul, Faizabad, Murree Road, Expressway, Ninth Avenue, and Jinnah Avenue, blocked by containers. High-security areas like D-Chowk, Serena Chowk, and Marriott Chowk have also sealed off.
The closures have caused severe traffic jams, forcing commuters to take long detours. Public transport is unavailable in many areas, leaving daily wage workers and office-goers stranded. The Metro Bus service between IJP Road and Pakistan Secretariat suspended for two days. While limited service will continue in Rawalpindi today, it will halt completely in both cities tomorrow.
| Blocked Roads | Alternative Routes |
|---|---|
| Rawat T-Chowk | Route via GT Road |
| Faizabad | Diversion to Park Road |
| Murree Road | Use Bhara Kahu as an alternative |
| Ninth Avenue | Take Kashmir Highway |
| Jinnah Avenue | Divert to F-10 and G-10 routes |
Heightened Security Amid Diplomatic Visits
The disruption comes alongside the visit of the Belarusian President on Monday, intensifying security protocols. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, during a visit to Police Lines, stressed the need for maintaining law and order. He urged law enforcement to use helmets and protective gear and arrest anyone creating unrest.
 protest planned for November 24 (Sunday), with stringent security measures in place.){kind=link}