Officials confirmed that on March 8, 2025, authorities in Pakistan’s capital temporarily barred key Red Zone entry and exit points, citing heightened security risks.
Islamabad Traffic Police announced that the Red Zone Closure shutters Express Chowk and Serena Hotel routes until further notice. Meanwhile, security forces quashed a second terrorist assault in a week at a Punjab-Khyber Pakhtunkhwa border checkpoint, underscoring the tense climate.
Islamabad Red Zone Traffic Shift
The closure forces commuters to detour via Nadra, Marriott, and Margalla roads, with Seventh Avenue open for Club Road traffic heading to the Red Zone. “Stay informed via our helpline at 1915 or social media,” police urged. The Red Zone, home to government hubs, faces an indefinite clampdown, pushing drivers to adapt fast as authorities prioritize safety over convenience.
At the Lakhani checkpoint, 15-20 heavily armed terrorists struck pre-dawn Saturday, wielding rocket launchers. Detected by thermal cameras, they split into groups but met fierce resistance—machine guns and mortars drove them back.
“Militant losses are likely high, though unconfirmed,” Punjab police said. Led by RPO Sajjad Hassan Khan, the defense echoed a repel just six days prior, marking 19 thwarted attacks. IG Dr. Usman Anwar hailed the grit. The Red Zone Closure paired with a border terror dodge signals Pakistan’s security crunch.
