Motorway update: M1, M2 closed at several points ahead of PTI protest call

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s major motorways, M1 and M2, connecting Islamabad to Peshawar and Lahore, have been closed due to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest call, causing massive travel disruptions and stranding thousands of commuters.

The M1 motorway is completely closed at four locations: GT Road, Attock Khurd, Hassanabdal, and Chashma Point. The CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) has also been sealed at various points. The closure of entry and exit routes throughout the district is causing difficulties for travelers.

Containers and barricades have been placed at motorway entry points, with heavy police and paramilitary deployment in place.

Islamabad Road Updates

The roads leading to the Red Zone and D-Chowk are sealed from all sides, including Serena, Jinnah Avenue, Nadra Square, Marriott Hotel, and Zero Point.

Entry points of the twin cities, Srinagar Highway at Bus Stop 26, Faizabad Chowk, Sanjgani Toll Plaza, Margalla Road, and 9th Avenue are also closed.

Other than that major roads linking to Rawalpindi are also completely sealed with containers including Stadium Road, 6th Road, Khanapul, and Naaz Sinema Road.

Heavy machinery has been deployed in key areas, including Faizabad and Islamabad Expressway, where double-layer containers are being placed to block traffic. Security in Rawalpindi has been heightened, with 4,000 officers and personnel deployed to maintain order.

The government has taken stringent security measures to prevent PTI workers and supporters from reaching Islamabad’s D-Chowk, where the party has called for a mass protest.

The PTI protest, led by the PTI founder, aims to show support for the judiciary. The motorway closures are part of the government’s broader efforts to maintain law and order during this time