The National Highways and Motorway Police announced on Sunday that all motorways connecting Lahore to other parts of the country have been reopened for traffic. The move brings relief to commuters after days of travel disruptions caused by ongoing protests. However, the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi continue to face severe traffic congestion, as several major routes remain closed for the third consecutive day.
According to officials, only a few key routes leading to major hospitals in Islamabad have been reopened to ensure medical accessibility. Most other entry and exit points into the capital remain sealed due to security concerns.
Traffic Diversions Continue in Islamabad and Rawalpindi
Authorities confirmed that the Islamabad Expressway remains partially closed, with traffic diverted to one side of Container Road near Faizabad. This diversion has caused significant congestion, leading to long queues of vehicles and delays across adjoining routes.
Commuters have been advised to use alternate routes wherever possible. The Rawalpindi–Murree Road, one of the busiest intercity connections, remains completely closed for all kinds of traffic. The closures have not only affected daily commuters but have also created challenges for emergency services and supply vehicles.
In response to the growing frustration among residents, the local administration has deployed additional traffic police to manage diversions and guide motorists through alternate pathways. Despite these efforts, traffic flow remains slow, especially near Faizabad, Murree Road, and the Expressway junctions.
All Motorways from Lahore Fully Operational
Meanwhile, the Motorway Police confirmed that all motorways originating from Lahore, including the M-2 (Lahore–Islamabad) and M-3 (Lahore–Abdul Hakeem), are now fully operational. These routes had been temporarily closed earlier due to security measures linked to the protest movement.
Officials noted that traffic between Lahore and Islamabad is moving normally, and there are no reports of obstructions along the M-2 corridor. The reopening of these routes has eased intercity travel and restored cargo movement, which had been delayed for the past two days.
Mobile Internet Services Restored in Twin Cities
After a two-day suspension, mobile internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi were restored late Saturday night. The move comes as a relief for residents, journalists, and businesses affected by communication blackouts.
The temporary suspension had been imposed to maintain law and order amid the protest march. Authorities have now restored connectivity across most areas, though intermittent disruptions may still occur near sensitive zones.
Situation Still Uncertain
While the reopening of Lahore’s motorways marks progress toward restoring national transport flow, the situation in Islamabad and Rawalpindi remains tense. Protesters continue to occupy strategic points, and authorities have maintained a heavy security presence around the Faizabad Interchange.
Officials said efforts are ongoing to reopen the remaining blocked roads and resume normal traffic. However, citizens are advised to stay updated on traffic advisories and avoid unnecessary travel near the protest zones until further notice.
