ISLAMABAD: Authorities closed multiple routes leading to Islamabad’s Red Zone on Friday ahead of expected protests by religious parties, according to a traffic advisory issued by the capital’s police.
Islamabad police said only a limited number of entry points to the Red Zone will remain open during the day to manage security and traffic flow. Margalla Road and the route via the Islamabad Marriott Hotel have been kept open for entry into the sensitive government area.
Read More: Pakistan’s Energy Lifeline Runs Through a War Zone
In a statement posted on social media platform X, police said that all other entry points to the Red Zone would remain closed. Fazal-e-Haq Road towards China Chowk has also been shut for traffic.
ٹریفک ایڈوائزری
مورخہ 6 مارچ 2026ریڈ زون میں داخلے کے لئے مارگلہ روڈ اور میریٹ ہوٹل کے راستے کھلے رہیں گے۔
ان راستوں کے علاوہ ریڈ زون کی طرف جانے والے تمام داخلی راستے بند رہیں گے۔
اسی طرح کلثوم پلازہ فضل حق روڈ بجانب چائنہ چوک ٹریفک کے لئے بند رہے گی۔
شہری متبادل کے طور پر… pic.twitter.com/HnGCw110P6
— Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) March 5, 2026
Commuters have been advised to use Jinnah Avenue as an alternative route to avoid congestion. Traffic from Polyclinic towards Lal Quarter Chowk will be diverted through Luqman Hakim Road, while Saddar Road has also been suggested as another option for motorists.
According to the advisory, commuters travelling from G-6 to F-6 sectors can use the China Chowk underpass or travel through Seventh Avenue to reach Jinnah Avenue. Traffic from Abpara Chowk heading towards Serena Hotel will also be diverted.
Those approaching the area from Club Road or Bara Kahu have been advised to follow the route via Kashmir Chowk, Srinagar Highway, Seventh Avenue and Margalla Road.
The measures have been implemented ahead of a protest march expected to move from G-6 to D-Chowk, a key political gathering point near major government buildings. Authorities confirmed that all roads leading directly to D-Chowk will remain closed for security reasons.
Read More: Development Without Denial: Why Islamabad’s Future Demands Reason, Not Romanticism
Police urged citizens to plan their travel accordingly and avoid unnecessary movement near the Red Zone. For assistance or further information, residents can contact the police helpline on 15 or the Traffic Helpline on 1915. Live traffic updates are also being broadcast on ITF FM 92.4.