ISLAMABAD: The federal capital has been placed on high alert due to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference, resulting in widespread road closures and stringent security measures.
The two-day conference, which begins today, will be attended by high-profile dignitaries, including the prime ministers of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, as well as representatives from Iran, India, China, Mongolia, and Turkmenistan.
Islamabad Roads Update
To ensure the security of the attendees, all main roads leading to the federal capital have been completely blocked. Road Closures include: All routes to the Red Zone, Park Road at the Bani Gala point, Rawal Dam Chowk from Club Road, Faisal Avenue at Faizabad, Express highway, GT road, Routes from IJP Road to I-8, Kashmir Highway leading to the Convention Center, Routes from Bara Kahu to Murree Road, Margalla Road entry/exit from GT Road, 9th Avenue on both sides of IJP road will remain blocked.
Moreover, the motorway M1 (Islamabad- Peshawar) is facing a slight closure at Brahma Bahtar Interchange. However, M2 is completely open for commuters to travel but people may face difficulties entering the federal capital due to heightened security.
Alternative Routes
Additionally, Alternate Routes have been provided to minimize disruptions: Peshawar to/from Rawat and Lahore via GT Road: Use Taxila-Motorway-Chakri Interchange-Chak Beli Road-Rawat, Traffic from 9th Avenue towards Rawalpindi: Take service road of I-8 to reach Faizabad, then take right to IJP road and from Faizabad take exit from Faizabad Interchange to Expressway onward to Rawat, Sadar-Muree road-Faizabad-Gun and Country Club Road (Garden Avenue) then Pak-China friendship center
Earlier, the federal government imposed Section 144 in Islamabad prohibiting public gatherings, pillion riding, and closure of wedding halls, and restaurants.
Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel on October 15 and 16, especially those with exams scheduled, as roads are expected to be congested due to VIP movements on October 17.
