Normalcy returns to twin cities

In the wake of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) Al-Aqsa March, road closures across the twin cities that had remained in place for the past two days were finally lifted on the third day. However, barriers at the Faizabad Interchange continued to remain intact.

In Rawalpindi, including the Cantonment area, the inner city, and along Murree Road - from Mareer Chowk to Double Road Chowk - all obstructions were cleared and the normal flow of traffic restored.

The Metro Bus service connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad, however, remains suspended for a third consecutive day, though the motorway has now been reopened to vehicular traffic. The removal of roadblocks enabled residents to regain access to neighbourhoods, commercial centres, and workplaces, allowing the resumption of daily life across the twin cities.

For two consecutive days, major routes, including Murree Road and other key arteries, had been sealed, disrupting intercity traffic between Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and adjoining areas. The closures left citizens unable to reach government offices, business hubs, hospitals, and educational institutions.

The process of clearing the thoroughfares commenced early on Sunday morning, and by midday, most of the blockades had been dismantled, restoring the smooth movement of vehicles. Nonetheless, heavy containers and barricades remain positioned at Shamsabad and Faizabad along Murree Road.

Meanwhile, with the reopening of roads and the resumption of goods transport, the supply of essential commodities between the twin cities has also been restored, enabling the replenishment of stock in commercial markets.

With the restoration of road connectivity, government offices, business establishments, and educational institutions across the twin cities are expected to operate as normal from today (Monday).