Large-scale security measures have brought the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad to a standstill ahead of high-level peace talks between the United States (US) and Iran. Over 10,000 security personnel, including 6,000 Islamabad police officers, 3,000 Punjab Constabulary, 900 Frontier Constabulary, and units from the Pakistan Army and Rangers, have taken control of the federal capital and surrounding areas.

 

Authorities have implemented a multi-tier security plan supervised by the military. This includes "blue book" protocol for the visiting delegates and the closure of all entry points to Islamabad’s Red Zone, with the exception of Margalla Road. 

 

Under these protocols, close protection teams assigned to VVIPs are prohibited from carrying mobile phones or digital watches.

 

In Rawalpindi, CPO [City Police Officer] Syed Khalid Mahmood Hamdani has placed the district on high alert, establishing 350 special police pickets. Teams from the Elite Force and Dolphin Force are patrolling the streets, while monitoring via Safe City CCTV cameras continues from a dedicated control room.

 

“Extraordinary security measures are being taken regarding the movement of foreign delegations, and foolproof security is being ensured,” a Rawalpindi police spokesperson said.

 

The security lockdown has turned several residential areas into restricted zones. Shipping containers and barbed wire have been used to seal Old Airport Road and all routes leading to Nur Khan Airbase. Neighborhoods including Shah Khalid Colony, Gulzar-e-Quaid, Airport Housing Society, Mangtal Town, and Faisal Colony have been effectively cut off.

 

Residents report that the closures occurred without prior notice. Logistical issues have left many households struggling for basic necessities. 

 

The disruption extended to students and commuters. With electric green buses diverted to Tipu Road and the Metro Bus service restricted between Saddar and PIMS [Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences], many were forced to walk long distances. 

 

Economic activity in the area has also been halted. The district administration directed traders in Saddar and along Old Airport Road to keep their shops closed on Friday and Saturday. Anjuman Tajraan Rawalpindi President Shahid Ghafoor Paracha confirmed that while city bazaars would remain open, shops near the airport and Saddar would comply with the closure request.