Islamabad shuts bus terminals, seals Red Zone ahead of Iranian president’s visit

ISLAMABAD: Authorities in the federal capital closed all bus terminals on Monday night and moved to tighten security across key parts of the city ahead of the Iranian president’s arrival on Tuesday.

Officials from the capital administration and police said terminal operators in Islamabad, including at Faizabad and Chongi No 26, were directed to halt services before midnight and keep operations suspended on Tuesday. According to the officials, the closures will remain in place until the Iranian president departs.

Security restrictions were also expanded around the Red Zone, which is being sealed off with access limited to relevant officials. More than 1,000 police personnel, backed by paramilitary forces including Rangers, are being deployed in and around the area as well as at important buildings. Arrangements are also being put in place along the route from the airport to the Red Zone.

The same officials said police were verifying details of guests staying in hotels and guesthouses inside the Red Zone and nearby areas. Public transport services, including Metro buses and e-buses, are also likely to be suspended within the High Security Zone, which includes the Red Zone.