The federal capital remains under lockdown for the second consecutive day as the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protest march continues its advance from Lahore towards Islamabad, prompting widespread road closures, travel disruptions and heightened security.
Authorities have closed all major entry points into Islamabad via the M-2 highway, which runs from Kalar Kahar to the capital, as part of precautionary measures.
Key junctions at Chakri, Kala Shah Kaku, Fateh Jang, Islamabad Zero Point and M-1/M-2 junction (connecting Peshawar traffic) have been closed to public.
Read: Security measures disrupt daily life in Rawalpindi
Additional traffic disruptions have been reported on several key highways beyond the M-2 corridor. These include M-4 Multan-Faisalabad Toll Highway, M-3 Lahore-Abdul Hakeem Highway, M-11 Lahore-Sialkot Highway and N-5 (GT Highway) near Muridke, where the protest convoy was last reported.
Travelers using these routes are experiencing significant delays, and authorities are advising the public to seek alternative routes and avoid non-essential travel.
The National Highway Police has urged commuters to avoid unnecessary travel to the capital and delay travel from central and southern Punjab until further notice. Alternative routes are recommended for intercity travelers.
Within Islamabad, containers and barricades have been placed at major intersections, particularly around the Red Zone and other sensitive areas.
Read more: Islamabad issues traffic diversion plan for Faizabad
Traffic within the twin cities has slowed significantly and reports suggest a partial suspension of mobile internet services in selected sectors to limit coordination between protesters.
Police reinforcements were sent overnight from Islamabad to beef up security along the capital’s outer perimeter.
Although the federal government has not announced a timeline for lifting restrictions, officials say normal traffic flow will only resume once the protest is dispersed or diverted.
