Islamabad authorities have implemented comprehensive traffic restrictions and shifted government operations to remote work as the city enters the second phase of talks running from April 19 through April 24, 2026.]
All federal ministries have transitioned to work-from-home arrangements, while the Red Zone and Extended Red Zone remain completely closed to all types of traffic. The closures encompass major arteries including Kashmir Chowk Club Road to Zero Point, Srinagar Highway from Zero Point to Serena Chowk, and Margalla Road from Faisal Chowk to Trail 3.
Motorways remain operational, although heavy traffic entry into Islamabad from any direction has been suspended. During VIP movements, the Expressway from Koral to Zero Point will be closed to all vehicles, and traffic may be stopped on Srinagar Highway at different times.
Almost all educational institutions have shifted to online instruction, although authorities have not announced official holidays. NUST postponed entry tests scheduled for April 20, 21, and 22, with a revised schedule to be announced later.
Residents of sectors G5, G6, G7, F6, and F7 are advised to use 9th Avenue from Margalla Road to reach Rawalpindi. Traffic from Faisal Avenue to Zero Point will be diverted to 9th Avenue.
Additional restrictions include suspension of Red Metro service and closure of the CPEC route. Heavy transport vehicles are not permitted in the twin cities until further notice, and travelers may encounter congestion while entering Islamabad from GT Road due to single-lane access. Authorities recommend travelers allow an additional one to one-and-a-half hours before starting journeys.
