Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Islamabad Reopens Transport After Week-Long Lockdown as USIran Talks Stall

The rollback follows a U.S. cancellation of envoys’ travel following Iran’s delegation’s departure from Islamabad.

People on bikes use a diverted route, following the roadblocks on security restrictions, as Pakistan prepares to host U.S. and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 24, 2026. REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro
People arrive at the closed van terminal, following the suspension of transport and closure of markets on security restrictions, as Pakistan prepares to host U.S. and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, April 24, 2026. REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro
Traffic congestion due to road closures implemented by authorities, following the suspension of transport and closure of markets on security restrictions, as Pakistan prepares to host U.S. and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 24, 2026. REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro
Buses are parked at a terminal, following the suspension of transport and closure of markets on security restrictions, as Pakistan prepares to host U.S. and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 24, 2026. REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro

Overview

  • Authorities restored public and goods transport Sunday across Islamabad and Rawalpindi after a week-long suspension.
  • Most routes and services reopened, but the Red Zone — the government and diplomatic district — remains sealed.
  • Bus hubs restarted with exceptions, with Faizabad in Islamabad and Pir Wadhai in Rawalpindi still closed as Metro service returns on a shortened route.
  • The easing followed President Donald Trump canceling a planned visit by envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff after Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi left without meeting U.S. officials.
  • Police keep a heavy presence with possible diversions on the Expressway and Srinagar Highway, after days of searches that detained suspects and a shutdown that stranded commuters, slowed courts, and squeezed food supplies.