Islamabad Traffic Plan Issued Before Marka-i-Haq Ceremony
Islamabad authorities have issued a detailed traffic advisory for Sunday ahead of a major Marka-i-Haq anniversary event expected to take place at the National Monument near Zero Point. The advisory was announced as the capital prepares for heavy movement linked to official ceremonies and heightened security arrangements.
Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon said the traffic plan would remain in force on May 10, with temporary diversions scheduled across several key routes. The measures are aimed at managing public movement while ensuring that arrangements for the event do not cause uncontrolled congestion in the federal capital.
According to the advisory, traffic diversions are expected from 6pm until midnight on different roads across Islamabad. Srinagar Highway between Korianwala Chowk and Peshawar Mor will remain closed on both sides during the specified period, while parts of the Islamabad Expressway will also be restricted for traffic moving towards Faisal Avenue.
Commuters entering the capital from the Motorway or Islamabad Chowk towards Bhara Kahu and Murree have been advised to use alternate routes through 9th Avenue, Colonel Sher Khan Road and Murree Road. Drivers travelling from Murree or Bhara Kahu towards the Motorway have also been directed to follow designated alternative corridors to avoid blocked sections.
The district administration urged citizens to plan journeys in advance, avoid unnecessary travel during peak hours and cooperate with traffic police deployed across the city. Officials said the temporary restrictions were necessary to maintain order and ensure smooth movement around sensitive locations during the event window.
The traffic plan also includes restrictions on commercial and heavy vehicles. Light transport vehicles will be diverted from Rawat T-Cross towards Rawalpindi from 5pm until midnight, while heavy transport vehicles will be barred from entering Islamabad from 4am on May 10 until midnight.
The advisory follows earlier preparations for the Marka-i-Haq commemoration, including rehearsals by Pakistan Air Force jets over the twin cities. The Pakistan Airports Authority has also warned that Islamabad airport operations may face temporary disruptions during the weekend because of operational requirements linked to the ceremony.
Marka-i-Haq refers to last year’s military escalation between Pakistan and India, beginning after the Pahalgam attack and ending with a ceasefire on May 10 following Pakistan’s Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. The anniversary has been framed by state institutions as a moment of national remembrance, defence readiness and unity.
For residents, transporters and travellers, the immediate impact will be felt in movement across Islamabad and Rawalpindi during the weekend. Authorities are expected to monitor road closures, airport operations and crowd management closely as final preparations continue for the national-level ceremony.