The Metro Bus service connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi shut down for four days, starting from October 14. This decision came straight from the district administration, aiming to ensure everything runs smoothly for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The buses will continue their usual operations till October 13, but after that, expect a complete halt.
Islamabad is getting ready to host big names on October 15 and 16 for the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting. PM Shehbaz Sharif will chair this event, which will include leaders from China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and representatives from India, Iran, Turkmenistan, and Mongolia. With many foreign dignitaries arriving, ensuring safety and security is a top priority.
To maintain law and order, Section 144 is in effect in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. This means no political rallies, gatherings, or even pigeon flying until October 17. Pillion riding, aerial firing, drones, and laser lights also banned for now, so it’s best to stay safe.
The security measures extend further. Five districts—Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, and Kot Addu—are on high alert with a three-day ban on public gatherings. Karachi is also cautious, imposing a full ban on gatherings.
SCO Summit 2024 Islamabad Holiday
To accommodate all these preparations, schools and colleges in Islamabad will observe a three-day holiday from October 14 to 16. Plus, the administration has ordered marriage halls, restaurants, and cafes in the twin cities to shut down from October 12 to 16. Business owners have been cautioned to follow the rules strictly, or they’ll be facing fines.
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