RAWALPINDI: Major roads in Rawalpindi witnessed unprecedented restrictions as the district administration extended the public holiday on Saturday amid heightened security for ongoing US Iran talks in Islamabad. Key arteries including Murree Road, Airport Road and Peshawar Road remained under tight control with limited movement allowed.

The decision was confirmed by Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, who said the extension was necessary to ensure foolproof security for foreign delegations. While emergency services, hospitals and essential institutions remained operational, routine urban activity was largely suspended across sensitive zones.

Authorities ordered the closure of markets, commercial outlets and petrol pumps along major corridors, effectively turning busy commercial routes into restricted security zones. Public transport operations were also halted in several areas, particularly along Peshawar Road, while partial services continued in outskirts such as Soan and Pirwadhai.

Traders and transporters confirmed compliance with official directives, stating that bazaars remained shut for multiple days. However, residents in affected localities reported shortages of essential items including milk and food, urging authorities to allow limited reopening of grocery stores and tandoors.

Security across Rawalpindi has been elevated to high alert, with over 5000 police personnel deployed citywide. Command and control operations are being supervised from Police Lines Headquarters under the leadership of City Police Officer Syed Khalid Hamdani, ensuring strict monitoring of all entry and exit points.

Law enforcement agencies have intensified search and intelligence based operations while maintaining strict surveillance around key installations and road networks. Despite the clampdown, officials confirmed that main highways remained open with controlled traffic flow, reflecting a balance between security enforcement and citizen mobility.