ISLAMABAD: Authorities have placed Islamabad on โred alertโ today amid crucial peace talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, with an extensive multi-layered security plan rolled out across the city.
More than 10,000 personnel from various security agencies have been deployed to safeguard visiting delegations. The operation is being supervised by the military, with support from paramilitary forces, including the Pakistan Rangers, alongside the Islamabad and Punjab police.
According to sources, around 6,000 Islamabad police personnel, 900 from the Frontier Constabulary, and 3,000 from the Punjab Constabulary are on duty. In addition, approximately 1,000 traffic police officials have been assigned to manage road flow, supported by the National Highways and Motorway Police.
Security has been tightened in the high-security Red Zone, where the Pakistan Army and Rangers are guarding key installations. Quick Response Force units have been stationed at multiple ููุงุท, while additional ููุงุช have been deployed in the Margalla Hills to enhance surveillance.
All entry points to the Red Zone have been sealed except for Margalla Road, which remains open only to authorised ุงูุฑุงุฏ and residents. Special routes have been designated for the movement of foreign delegates from the airport to their accommodations, with strict โblue bookโ protocol in place.
Notably, close protection teams accompanying VVIPs have been barred from carrying electronic devices, including mobile phones and digital watches, to minimise security risks.
Meanwhile, the capital administration is overseeing emergency services, including fire brigades and ambulances, as well as ensuring proper lighting, road maintenance, and logistical arrangements.
Due to heightened security, major arteries such as Faisal Avenue up to Zero Point and the Expressway up to Koral Chowk have been closed, with traffic diversions in place across the city. Commuters have been advised to use alternative routes, particularly via 9th Avenue, to avoid disruptions during the high-level diplomatic engagement.
