The federal capital remains in lockdown for the second consecutive day as the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protest march continues its advance from Lahore towards Islamabad, causing widespread road closures, travel disruptions and heightened security.
Authorities have closed all major entry points into Islamabad via the M-2 highway, connecting Kalar Kahar to the capital, as part of precautionary measures.
The main interchanges of Chakri, Kala Shah Kaku, Fateh Jang, Islamabad Zero Point and M-1/M-2 junction (connecting Peshawar traffic) were closed to the public.
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Additional traffic disruptions were reported on several key highways beyond the M-2 corridor. These include M-4 Multan-Faisalabad toll road, M-3 Lahore-Abdul Hakeem highway, M-11 Lahore-Sialkot highway and N-5 (GT road) near Muridke, where the protest convoy was last reported.
Commuters using these routes are experiencing significant delays, with authorities advising the public to seek alternative routes and avoid non-essential travel.
The National Highway and Motorway Police 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.
In Islamabad, containers and barricades have been placed at major intersections, including around the red zone and other sensitive areas.
Learn more: Islamabad releases traffic diversion plan for Faizabad
Traffic in the Twin Cities has been slowed significantly and reports suggest a partial suspension of mobile internet services in some areas to limit coordination among protesters.
Police reinforcements were dispatched overnight from Islamabad to reinforce security along the outer perimeter of the capital.
Although the federal government has not announced a timetable for lifting restrictions, officials say normal traffic will not resume until the protest is dispersed or rerouted.
