A public holiday has been declared in Rawalpindi for Saturday, April 11, in response to the historic diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran. Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi, Hassan Waqar Cheema, announced the closure of all government and private offices as well as educational institutions for the day.
This announcement follows an earlier two-day holiday on April 9 and 10, which was initially declared to support enhanced security arrangements across the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The Cabinet Division had earlier issued a formal notification confirming the public holiday in the federal capital to facilitate the hosting of these landmark talks.
In a significant development, Pakistan is playing a crucial role as the mediator in the negotiations, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir credited for their sustained efforts in brokering a ceasefire between the two nations. The ongoing summit has led to a temporary halt in routine political and administrative functions, including the indefinite postponement of National Assembly and Senate sessions, with the Senate session scheduled for Thursday at 11:30 am being officially deferred.
Preparations across Islamabad have intensified in anticipation of the arrival of foreign delegations. The Capital Development Authority has mobilized teams to oversee beautification and logistical arrangements extending from Nur Khan Air Base to various parts of the city, ensuring the capital is suitably prepared for the high-profile event.
Meanwhile, Islamabad Police have enforced stringent security measures, sealing off the Red Zone and adjacent areas to all traffic except authorized government vehicles. The police have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel near these zones and to cooperate fully with traffic authorities managing the situation. Real-time traffic updates are being provided to assist commuters.
Additionally, a traffic advisory has been issued restricting the entry of heavy vehicles into Islamabad starting Wednesday. Authorities have called on vehicle owners and drivers to comply with these measures to maintain smooth traffic flow and security. For assistance, the public is encouraged to contact the Traffic Helpline at 1915.
