On April 20, authorities confirmed that all public and goods transport in Rawalpindi would be suspended until further directives. This decision follows repeated closures of markets and transport terminals, which have already disrupted business activity in the city.

The Islamabad Deputy Commissioner dismissed claims regarding office closures in Islamabad and Rawalpindi as fake news. However, he did announce that public and private offices in Islamabad’s Red Zone would operate from home on the same day. Citizens are urged to rely only on official channels for authentic updates—”Citizens are requested to refrain from sharing unverified or fake news,” said Irfan Nawaz Memon.

These abrupt closures stem from authorities ordering them due to the arrival of important guests. The repeated opening and closure of key commercial and transport points has paralyzed normal activity within the city, creating frustration among local traders.

Trader organizations have protested against this pattern of closures, emphasizing the negative impact on their businesses. The situation has led to increasing unrest among those who rely on consistent access to markets and transportation.