Rawalpindi traffic restored after protests, Faizabad interchange remains closed

M1, M2, M3, M4 motorways operate normally with traffic flowing toward Peshawar, Lahore, Multan

Traffic flow was restored across most parts of Rawalpindi on the third day of protests, as authorities removed barricades and reopened major routes that had been sealed for two days.

However, the Faizabad Interchange and parts of Murree Road near Shamsabad remain closed due to continued blockades.

According to traffic officials, roads within the Cantonment area, the city centre, and Murree Road from Mareer Chowk to Double Road Chowk have been cleared for public movement. Routes such as Peshawar Road, Chaklala Road, Airport Road, and The Mall are now open, easing congestion that had paralysed the city earlier in the week.

Despite significant progress, heavy containers continue to block the Faizabad Interchange — a critical connection between Rawalpindi and Islamabad — and the adjacent Shamsabad stretch of Murree Road.

These closures have kept adjoining routes, including IJP Road and the link from Double Road towards Faizabad, under partial restriction.

The Metro Bus service between the twin cities remains suspended for the third consecutive day, adding to the inconvenience of commuters who rely on it for daily travel.

The M-1 motorway towards Peshawar, the M-2 motorway towards Lahore, the M-3 Motorway Lahore to Abdul Hakeem and the M-4 Motorway Pindi Bhattian to Multan are operating normally.

For two days, the closure of major arteries and intercity links had brought traffic between Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and the surrounding areas to a standstill.

Residents faced severe hardship reaching workplaces, hospitals, schools, and businesses. Commercial activities were also affected as goods transport was halted.

With the removal of barriers and restoration of transport routes, supply chains have resumed to markets and commercial centres across the twin cities.

Authorities have also confirmed that traffic wardens have been deployed along reopened roads to manage the returning flow and ensure smooth passage.