Twin cities reopen transport, bus terminals after week-long shutdown

The federal capital’s district administration on Saturday announced the restoration of transport services, allowing all types of public and goods transport to enter the city after a temporary suspension imposed for security reasons for possible US-Iran talks that never materialised.

The development comes amid a fresh setback in the peace process after US President Donald Trump cancelled a planned visit by envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff to Pakistan for talks with Iranian officials.

According to a statement issued by the deputy commissioner’s office, all bus terminals across Islamabad were reopened, except for the Faizabad bus terminal, which would remain closed until further notice.

Read: US-Iran peace process hits snag as Trump cancels trip of envoys, FM Araghchi leaves Pakistan

The Punjab Mass Transit Authority announced the resumption of Metro bus and electric bus services from Sunday. In Islamabad, the Metro bus would operate between Saddar Station and Shaheed-i-Millat Station, while Parade Ground and Secretariat stations would remain closed until further notice. The electric bus service would also be fully restored from Sunday morning, offering improved intra-city commuting facilities.

Tthe Islamabad district administration also reopened hiking trails in the Margalla Hills. Hiking enthusiasts would be allowed access from Sunday, while recreational spots, including Daman-i-Koh and Lake View Park, were also reopened to the public.

In Rawalpindi, the Metro bus service would resume from Sunday, operating between Saddar Station and Islamabad’s Shaheed-i-Millat Station.  Additionally, the Punjab government’s electric bus service and all EV transport routes in Rawalpindi will become fully operational from Sunday.

According to a statement from the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, the Rawalpindi district administration has fully reopened all entry and exit points of the city for all types of traffic, including private, public and goods transport. However, Pir Wadhai Adda will remain closed until further notice.