Road Closures and Diversions Announced for High-Level Islamabad Event
Authorities in Islamabad have issued a detailed traffic advisory ahead of the Marka-i-Haq anniversary ceremony scheduled for Sunday, May 10. The event is expected to attract senior civilian and military leadership, leading to extensive security and traffic arrangements across the capital.
Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon confirmed that temporary traffic diversions will remain in place from 6pm until midnight. He urged residents to plan their travel carefully, avoid unnecessary movement during peak hours, and cooperate with traffic officials.
The main ceremony is expected to take place at the National Monument near Zero Point. Officials say the event will commemorate the anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, a term used by the state for last year’s military conflict between Pakistan and India.
Major Roads to Remain Closed Across the Capital
According to the traffic advisory, several major roads in Islamabad will remain closed during the event. Srinagar Highway from Korianwala Chowk to Peshawar Mor will remain closed for traffic on both sides during the specified hours.
Authorities also announced closures on the Islamabad Expressway from Faizabad to Khayaban Chowk for traffic moving toward Faisal Avenue.
Motorists traveling from the Motorway or Islamabad Chowk toward Bhara Kahu and Murree have been advised to use 9th Avenue and Colonel Sher Khan Road through Murree Road. Similarly, travelers coming from Murree and Bhara Kahu toward the Motorway should use Murree Road, Faizabad, and 9th Avenue.
Traffic officials also issued alternate route guidance for residents traveling to and from the Red Zone. Motorists have been advised to use Margalla Road or Jinnah Avenue to avoid restricted areas.
Commuters arriving from Rawalpindi toward Islamabad are encouraged to travel through Colonel Sher Khan Road, Fakhar-i-Alam Road, or 9th Avenue to reduce congestion.
Heavy Traffic Ban and Flight Disruptions Expected
Authorities also announced a complete ban on heavy traffic entering Islamabad from 4am on May 10 until midnight. Light transport vehicles traveling from Rawat T-Cross toward Rawalpindi will face diversions from 5pm onward.
Travelers moving from Murree and Bhara Kahu toward Koral Chowk or Rawat T-Cross have been directed to use Korang Road, Bani Gala, Park Road, and Lehtrar Road.
The large-scale preparations follow Friday’s aerial rehearsal by Pakistan Air Force fighter jets over Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Residents witnessed low-altitude aerial displays as part of preparations for the official ceremony.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Airports Authority also warned that flight operations at Islamabad airport could face disruptions from Friday to Sunday due to operational requirements linked to the event.
The anniversary marks one year since the military escalation between Pakistan and India ended with a ceasefire on May 10 last year. The conflict, which followed the Pahalgam attack and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, has officially been referred to as Marka-i-Haq by Pakistani authorities.
Officials continue urging citizens to follow traffic updates and avoid unnecessary travel during the ceremony period to reduce inconvenience and ensure public safety.
