ISLAMABAD – The residents of federal capital faced inconvenience in both commuting and communication as the authorities placed containers on key intersections and suspended mobile data services in anticipation of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) march towards Islamabad on Friday.
According to the Mass Transit Authority, both the metro train and Speedo bus services were initially halted owing to blocked routes, though the Speedo bus service in Lahore has now resumed operations. Simultaneously, disruptions in daily routines prevail in Rawalpindi and Islamabad as the religious party’s demonstrations continue to impact normalcy for a second consecutive day.
In Lahore, preventive measures have led to significant roadblocks, with the Saggian Bridge closed off using containers. Similarly, access to Shahdara through the Ravi Bridge has been hindered by a container blockade, while Old Ravi Road heading into Lahore faces restrictions. The Lahore Press Club and nearby areas are also experiencing severe traffic issues as multiple routes are obstructed by containers.
In Rawalpindi, major thoroughfares such as the Expressway, Faizabad, and IGP Road remain entirely shut and Faizabad Interchange is blocked by containers. Furthermore, roads leading to Waris Khan, Committee Chowk, Sakshath Road, Shamshabad, Rawal Road, Shaheen Chowk, Sadar, and Old Airport remain closed. The Rawalpindi administration has also enforced a ban on heavy traffic entering the city.
Meanwhile, metro bus services between Islamabad and Rawalpindi remain suspended for a second day. A significant police presence has been deployed in Faizabad as part of security measures surrounding the ongoing protests.
