The federal capital has begun a de-containerisation process as authorities shift focus to restoring normal daily life and traffic flow across the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi following recent security measures. After high-level consultations, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Muhammad Sohail Chaudhry, issued formal orders to initiate the clearance operation.
Heavy machinery was promptly deployed to remove the massive shipping containers placed around sensitive installations, including the Red Zone and the Diplomatic Enclave. A police spokesperson confirmed that the capital would be completely clear of all barricades by late evening.
In tandem with the capital's efforts, a parallel clearance operation commenced in Rawalpindi. Rawalpindi police confirmed that heavy machinery is actively working to clear major thoroughfares and entry points, facilitating a return to normal mobility for residents.
Authorities initiated the removal of containers placed across major roads over three weeks ago, following the IGP's directive to ensure smooth traffic flow by Monday evening. These heavy barricades had been positioned at key access points, main arteries, and around the high-security Red Zone for the past 24 days.
The removal process is being monitored by senior police officials to ensure that no security gaps are left while restoring public access. Citizens have expressed relief as the removal of these obstacles marks the end of a period of restricted movement that had severely impacted local businesses and daily commutes.
Traffic wardens have been deployed at major intersections to manage the expected surge in vehicles as commuters return to their regular routes. The administration has urged citizens to cooperate with the authorities during the final stages of the clearance operation.
The decision to clear the roads comes after a period of heightened security, which had necessitated the use of containers to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive areas. With the situation now stabilizing, the focus has shifted entirely toward administrative normalcy.
Local transport services, which had been operating on limited routes due to the blockades, are expected to resume full operations by tomorrow morning. The restoration of these routes is a significant step in bringing the twin cities back to their pre-security-alert state.
The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has also announced that all public offices and educational institutions will function as per their regular schedules starting tomorrow. This move is aimed at minimizing the disruption caused to the public over the last three weeks.
As the operation concludes, the authorities remain vigilant, maintaining a balance between public convenience and the security requirements of the federal capital. The successful removal of these containers signifies a return to normalcy for millions of residents in the region.