24-Hour Restriction Imposed Ahead of August 14 Celebrations
Authorities have temporarily banned the entry of heavy vehicles into Islamabad and Rawalpindi as part of traffic and security arrangements ahead of Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations.
According to the traffic advisory, the restriction came into effect at 12:00am on Thursday, August 13, 2026, and is scheduled to remain in force until 12:00am on Friday, August 14. The announced restriction therefore covers a 24-hour period.
Transporters and drivers of heavy vehicles have been advised to adjust their journeys accordingly and avoid travelling towards the twin cities during the restricted period.
Authorities have also urged motorists to check the latest road situation before beginning their journeys, as additional diversions or temporary restrictions may be introduced depending on security and traffic conditions.
The measures come as Islamabad and Rawalpindi prepare for increased movement and public activity connected with Independence Day celebrations.
Motorway Restrictions Affect Heavy and Passenger Vehicles
The National Highways and Motorway Police’s latest travel advisory on Thursday morning also showed restrictions affecting several major motorway routes leading towards Islamabad.
On the M-1 Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway, the southbound section from the Peshawar Main Toll Plaza towards Islamabad was closed to heavy transport vehicles and public service vehicles because of what the NHMP described as a law-and-order situation.
Restrictions were also reported on the M-2 North, where heavy transport and public service vehicles travelling from Kot Momin towards Islamabad were barred from proceeding on the affected section.
The E-35 Hazara Motorway was similarly closed to heavy and public service vehicles travelling southbound from the Mansehra Main Toll Plaza towards Burhan.
The NHMP advisory also showed restrictions on the Hakla-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway, with heavy and public service vehicle traffic affected on sections leading towards the Islamabad region.
These motorway restrictions indicate that transporters approaching the capital from different parts of the country could face delays or diversions during the Independence Day security arrangements.
Drivers Told to Check Traffic Situation Before Travelling
Authorities have asked commercial drivers, freight operators and other motorists to plan journeys carefully and remain updated about changing traffic conditions.
Drivers requiring assistance can contact the National Highways and Motorway Police Helpline 130 for information about road conditions, closures and diversions.
Travel updates are also being shared through the NHMP’s official communication channels.
The motorway police’s live advisory was continuing to show changing road conditions on Thursday morning, with some motorway sections restricted specifically for heavy transport vehicles and public service vehicles while other national highway sections remained open.
Motorists travelling towards Islamabad or Rawalpindi have therefore been advised not to rely solely on normal journey times and to confirm their routes before departure.
The temporary restrictions are intended to help authorities manage traffic movement and security arrangements during the period leading into August 14.
Heavy vehicle operators are expected to resume normal entry into the twin cities after the restriction is lifted, subject to any further traffic or security instructions issued by the authorities.
