Twin Cities on High Security Alert as Transport Suspended Ahead of Expected US-Iran Talks

Pakistani authorities have imposed tight security measures in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, suspending all public, private, and goods transport services with immediate effect ahead of a possible second round of high-level negotiations between the United States and Iran.

Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon announced the suspension of heavy and public transport until further orders, urging citizens to fully cooperate with security agencies. In a similar move, Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema confirmed that no public or goods transport would be allowed to enter or leave the garrison city from Sunday noon till further notice.

The Faizabad long-distance bus terminal and other major transport hubs in the twin cities have been affected, with reports indicating restrictions could last up to April 26. Inter-city traffic via motorways and GT Road has also faced curbs, causing significant inconvenience to daily commuters.

Security has been beefed up across the region, with thousands of police personnel, Rangers, and Frontier Corps troops deployed. Key roads, including those in the Red Zone, have been sealed, and additional forces are guarding sensitive installations.The measures come amid expectations that Islamabad will host another round of US-Iran talks following the first session earlier this month, which ended without a full agreement despite a fragile ceasefire. Officials have requisitioned some luxury hotels for the anticipated high-profile delegations.

District administrations have assured that supplies of essential commodities will not be disrupted, with separate arrangements in place for emergency and essential services.Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay updated through official channels. This is a developing story.