Parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi began returning to normal on Wednesday as several routes in the twin cities were reopened to the public, while the high-security Red Zone remained sealed amid ongoing diplomatic activity and security arrangements.
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Authorities had imposed strict closures over recent days in preparation for the expected arrival of foreign delegations for high-level talks involving the United States and Iran, though the schedule was later disrupted due to last-minute changes in diplomatic plans.
اہم اعلان:
ضلعی انتظامیہ اسلام آباد کی جانب سے 26 نمبر کے مقام پر قائم بس ٹرمینلز کی سروسز کو دوبارہ بحال کر دیا گیا ہے، پبلک ٹرانسپورٹ میں دیگر شہروں کی جانب سے سفر کرنے والے شہری 26 نمبر ٹرمینلز سے روانہ ہو سکتے ہیں، شکریہ— DC Islamabad (@dcislamabad) April 21, 2026
The Red Zone, which houses key government institutions, remained under heavy security with army personnel and police deployed across sensitive points. Entry continued to be restricted to authorised officials only, while many government employees were instructed to work from home.
Outside the sealed area, life gradually resumed in most parts of the capital. Markets reopened, transport routes were restored in phases, and schools shifted back from online learning in some areas. However, several bus terminals in Rawalpindi remained closed, causing continued disruption to daily commuters.
Residents described mixed feelings about the situation. While some expressed pride in Pakistan’s growing diplomatic role, others pointed to the economic and personal hardships caused by repeated road closures and security lockdowns.
Small businesses, in particular, reported reduced customer flow and declining sales. Transport disruptions also affected supply chains, though essential goods such as groceries and meat remained available in most markets.
Officials said the security measures were necessary to ensure stability during a sensitive diplomatic period, though no final confirmation of high-level talks had been announced at the time.
Despite the uncertainty, authorities have begun scaling back restrictions in phases, signalling a possible easing of the situation in the coming days if security conditions remain stable.
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Residents continue to hope that ongoing diplomatic efforts will eventually bring long-term stability and reduce the need for repeated disruptions in the capital.