Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP), the capital’s traffic authority, has temporarily closed several main entry and exit routes to the city’s Red Zone — the restricted central area that includes high-security government and diplomatic zones — from November 3, 2026, until further notice.
The closures cover approaches at Serena Hotel, NADRA Chowk and Express Chowk. Motorists who normally use those points will need to change their route for as long as the advisory remains in force.
Which roads remain open
Authorities said residents and visitors can still reach the Red Zone through Ayub Chowk, the Marriott Hotel route and Margalla Road. Those three corridors are the designated alternatives while the Serena, NADRA Chowk and Express Chowk approaches stay shut.
Traffic police personnel are on duty to direct vehicles and reduce confusion at diversion points. Drivers unfamiliar with the open corridors should follow on-ground instructions rather than relying only on habitual shortcuts.
Extra time and how to get updates
ITP has asked citizens to build an extra 20 minutes into journey plans so they are less likely to face delays when switching routes or waiting at guided diversions.
For current guidance, commuters can call the traffic helpline on 1915. The force also pointed people to its social media channels and to FM 92.4 for ongoing announcements while the Red Zone restrictions continue.
Aasan alfaaz mein
Islamabad ke Red Zone ke kuch important raste 3 November se band hain, jab tak police kholne ka elaan na kare. Serena, NADRA Chowk aur Express Chowk se entry ab possible nahi. Ayub Chowk, Marriott wala rasta aur Margalla Road abhi open hain. Safar se pehle 20 minute zyada time nikal len, aur zarurat pare to 1915 ya FM 92.4 check kar len.
