Rawalpindi Issues Traffic Plan For Pakistan Sri Lanka Series

Rawalpindi traffic authorities have issued a management plan for roads around the Pakistan-Sri Lanka cricket fixtures, with arrangements focused on reducing congestion during team movements and helping spectators reach the stadium with fewer delays. The plan comes ahead of the first practice match scheduled at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 6, 2026.

City Traffic Officer Farhan Aslam said diversions would be used for the shortest possible duration whenever teams are moving between their accommodation and the venue. The stated aim is to balance security requirements with routine movement for commuters travelling between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

According to the plan, vehicles coming from Islamabad towards Rawalpindi will be diverted from Faizabad towards the Islamabad Expressway during team movements. Traffic heading from Rawalpindi towards Islamabad will be redirected in phases from three separate points, depending on the timing and route of the movement.

Authorities said more than 315 traffic police officers and personnel will be deployed to regulate flow, guide motorists and keep alternative routes functional. The deployment is expected to cover key junctions, approach roads and parking points around the stadium and adjoining areas.

Three designated parking areas have also been arranged for cricket spectators. Officials said the parking plan is intended to prevent random roadside parking near the venue, which often creates bottlenecks before and after major sporting events.

Commuters have been advised to follow updates through official social media channels and FM radio during match days. Traffic officials said real-time communication would be used to inform the public about route changes, diversions and clearance of roads once team movements are completed.

The officer urged motorists and cricket fans to cooperate with personnel on duty, saying smooth movement during the series would depend on public discipline as well as official arrangements. The plan is expected to remain important throughout practice sessions and match days as international cricket activity draws crowds to Rawalpindi.

The upcoming fixtures are part of a busy cricket schedule involving Pakistan and Sri Lanka, making crowd and transport management a major civic concern for the twin cities. Authorities are expected to review traffic flow after the opening arrangements and adjust diversions if required.