Pindi on high alert before high-level talks

10,000 cops stationed; businesses, public places closed under heightened security plan

Pakistani flags installed in front of the President’s house, as Pakistan prepares to host the US and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, on April 18, 2026. Photo: Reuters

RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD:

Extraordinary security arrangements have been put in place in Rawalpindi ahead of the expected final round of Iran–United States talks in Islamabad.

More than 10,000 police personnel have been deployed, and over 600 checkpoints have been established across the city. Authorities have announced that, from midnight tonight, several sensitive areas surrounding Nur Khan Airbase and Islamabad International Airport will be sealed.

A complete ban has been imposed on drone flights, pigeon flying, and aerial firing. Officials say these measures are aimed at ensuring the security of aircraft carrying high-level foreign delegations.

Police confirmed that a red alert has been declared in Rawalpindi, particularly in the vicinity of Nur Khan Airbase and Islamabad Airport. Officers will also be stationed on rooftops as part of heightened vigilance.

Special security measures have been enforced within the jurisdictions of New Town, Sadiqabad, and Chaklala police stations. In the first phase, authorities have ordered the closure of restaurants in these areas from midnight until further notice. In addition, parks, beauty parlours, markets, snooker clubs, fitness centres, paan shops, kiosks, barber shops, banks, and bakeries will remain closed.

Police have begun distributing warning notices to businesses, cautioning that strict action will be taken against any violations. No decision has yet been made regarding the suspension of public or goods transport.

Security measures also include the closing down of all boys' and girls' hostels within Rawalpindi until further notice. Police have sent notices to all hostel owners who have been ordered to vacate hostels by midnight on Saturday. The warning issued has instructed boys and girls staying at the hostel to return to their homes as legal action will be taken against those who do not comply.

Federal capital restricted

In view of the expected arrival of delegations from Iran and the United States in Islamabad, extraordinary security arrangements have been made.

Security has been put on high alert on sensitive routes in Islamabad as well, with the administration having begun the process of obtaining security certificates from the owners of buildings located on these routes.

The authorities say that special measures have been taken for the security of the delegations. The owners of houses, shops, plazas and hotels situated along sensitive routes have been bound by specific security instructions.

According to the police, there will be a complete ban on parking along these routes, while entry of unrelated persons will not be allowed. In addition, hotels and guesthouses have been instructed to keep a complete record of guests and submit reports to the relevant police station on a daily basis. According to sources, movement on roofs, balconies and windows has also been restricted and in case of any violation, the building owner will be held responsible.

The administration has instructed citizens to immediately report any suspicious activity or security concerns, otherwise strict legal action will be taken against violators.

Load Next Story