PTI Protesters Arrive at D-Chowk Amid Tear Gas Barrages, Causing Travel Disruptions for Nearby Areas

PTI Protesters Arrive at D-Chowk Amid Tear Gas Barrages, Causing Travel Disruptions for Nearby Areas

Travel Disruptions in Islamabad Amid PTI Protesters at D-Chowk

Islamabad, Pakistan – The capital city faced significant travel disruptions today as protests erupted at D-Chowk, a central hub for political demonstrations. Heavy traffic jams, road closures, and diversions caused frustration for commuters, with the effects rippling through key routes, including the Islamabad Expressway and major link roads.

Current Situation

The protest, which drew a large number of participants, began early in the morning and escalated as demonstrators gathered near the iconic D-Chowk, blocking traffic in the Red Zone area. Authorities responded by cordoning off parts of Constitution Avenue and restricting access to sensitive areas.

Travelers from nearby locations like Sangjani and Rawalpindi reported long delays due to diversions. Many commuters were left stranded as public transport faced disruptions, and alternative routes quickly became congested.

Motorway and Entry Points Affected

The M1 and M2 motorways were also impacted, with authorities temporarily suspending traffic to and from Islamabad in certain sections. Travelers heading toward Lahore and Peshawar were advised to delay their journeys or take alternative routes. Officials confirmed that the Sangjani Toll Plaza faced heavy congestion, adding to the chaos.

Public Reaction

Many Islamabad residents took to social media to share their experiences. One commuter tweeted, “It took me two hours to travel five kilometers! The protests at D-Chowk have paralyzed the city.”

Meanwhile, travelers flying out of Islamabad International Airport expressed concern over missing their flights as routes leading to the airport were heavily congested.

Lahore Traffic Updates

The situation also caused ripple effects in other cities. Lahore, a major transit hub, saw increased traffic on its roads as vehicles rerouted from Islamabad flooded the GT Road.

Government and Law Enforcement Response

The Islamabad Traffic Police issued an advisory, urging residents to avoid non-essential travel and to use alternate routes where possible. Security forces have been deployed to manage the crowd and ensure public safety, while efforts are underway to negotiate with protest leaders to restore normalcy.

Conclusion

As protests continue, commuters are advised to stay updated through traffic advisories and news channels like ARY News, Dawn News, and Dunya News Urdu for the latest updates. Travelers should plan their routes carefully and anticipate delays until the situation stabilizes.

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