Pakistan | Major Road Closures, Diversions as TLP Protest March Advances Toward Islamabad

ISLAMABAD – October 11, 2025: Widespread traffic disruptions are being reported across Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad as the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protest march continues its advance toward the federal capital. Security has been heightened throughout the twin cities, with major roads sealed and several diversions implemented to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.

In Islamabad and Rawalpindi, authorities have enforced extensive traffic management measures as convoys of protesters move closer to Faizabad. While movement remains partially open along sections of Peshawar Road, Sohan Highway, Pirwadhai Mor, and Kacheri, congestion is building in key corridors connecting the two cities. Temporary diversions have been set up from Old Airport Road through Khanna Pul, Lehtrar Road, and Rawal Chowk toward Srinagar Highway to facilitate commuters from Rawalpindi, DHA, and Bahria Town. Traffic from Wah Cantt and Taxila has been redirected via Faisal Hills and B-17 due to partial closures near Margalla Pahari.

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However, several key routes remain closed, including Faizabad, Zero Point, and multiple interchanges along the M-1 and M-2 motorways. Balkasar, Chakri, Fateh Jang, Kala Shah Kaku, and the Islamabad Interchange have been sealed with containers, halting all movement toward Lahore and Peshawar. The Jhelum Bridge and adjoining sections of the GT Road near Muridke are also blocked as part of security containment measures. Within Rawalpindi, the situation remains tense as Faizabad, Committee Chowk, Liaquat Bagh, Mareer Chowk, and Dav College Chowk are fully sealed. Barriers and containers have also been placed along Murree Road, Chandni Chowk, and Khanna Pul, bringing most vehicular movement to a standstill.

Despite intermittent movement at points like MH Chowk, Sawan Bridge, Kalma Chowk, Raheemabad Flyover, and T-Chowk Rawat, traffic across the twin cities remains severely restricted. Authorities confirmed that the M-1 motorway is open only toward Peshawar, while the M-2 remains operational toward Rawalpindi but closed for Lahore-bound traffic. The Metro Bus service has been suspended until further notice.

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In Lahore, traffic bottlenecks have been reported throughout the city as TLP workers mobilize for their march northward. Heavy congestion has been observed on GT Road, Motorway M-2, and Motorway M-11, with the Kala Shah Kaku Interchange experiencing near-constant gridlock. Movement is also heavily restricted at Yateem Khana Chowk, Moon Market, and the areas surrounding Data Darbar and Jail Road. Ravi Bridge and Anarkali continue to face slow-moving traffic and periodic roadblocks as law enforcement tightens control over major intersections.

Security officials have placed heavy contingents across sensitive points, erecting container barricades to limit the protest march’s advance. Citizens have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel toward Islamabad via the M-1 and M-2 motorways and to rely on official advisories for real-time updates. The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has advised commuters to stay tuned to FM 92.4 and its WhatsApp channel for verified traffic information.

Authorities reiterated that all openings and closures remain temporary and subject to rapid change depending on the evolving law and order situation. Residents across the affected areas have been advised to remain vigilant, plan alternate routes, and cooperate with law enforcement for their safety.

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