Islamabad Police shut down Constitution Avenue after government employees staged a protest in the federal capital. The move caused major traffic disruption in the Red Zone area ahead of Budget 2026-27. Authorities advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel toward the high-security zone. They warned that traffic flow remained severely affected due to the ongoing protest activity.
In an official advisory, Islamabad Police asked commuters to use alternative routes. They suggested the Bari Imam route for access to Margalla Road to reduce congestion and delays. Officials also urged motorists to plan their travel carefully. They said alternative roads should be used to avoid inconvenience and long traffic queues.
Police further asked the public to stay updated through official social media channels and FM 92.4. They said live updates would continue as the situation developed.
Meanwhile, government employees held a large protest in Islamabad on Friday. They demanded salary increases, pension relief, and reforms in the service structure ahead of the federal budget 2026-27.
The protest was organised by the All Government Employees Grand Alliance (AGEGA). Employees from across the country joined the march toward Parliament House after several days of demonstrations outside the Ministry of Finance.
Protesters also demanded revised pay scales and the merger of allowances into basic pay. They called for higher salaries, pension rollbacks, and tax relief for teachers and researchers. They also pushed for regularisation of contract workers.
Tensions increased when protesters attempted to move closer to Parliament House. Clashes broke out between demonstrators and Islamabad Police. Law enforcement used batons to stop the advancing crowd.
Despite the confrontation, protesters continued to press their demands. They said they would maintain the sit-in until authorities responded. The protest comes at a sensitive time as the government finalises the federal budget. Employees are seeking financial relief amid rising inflation and economic pressure.
