Islamabad: Due to high-level talks between the United States and Iran being held in Islamabad, strict security arrangements over the past two weeks-along with unannounced closures of roads and business centers-have caused losses worth billions of rupees to the national economy, as well as to citizens and traders in Islamabad.
Major commercial areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, especially Blue Area, the Red Zone, and suburban markets, remained closed for several consecutive days. Early closure of businesses and blocked roads led to daily trade losses amounting to billions of rupees.
Road closures have caused daily losses of billions, while travel costs, food items, and construction materials have increased by more than 100%.
Patients and injured individuals are facing severe difficulties in reaching hospitals. Even in critical conditions, it takes several hours to transport patients and accident victims to hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad due to long, diverted traffic routes.
In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Punjab Police personnel deployed by the federal government for security have reportedly been taking heavy bribes from distressed citizens facing these difficulties.
Since April 10, 2026, major highways connecting the twin cities-including the Expressway and Srinagar Highway-have remained closed or heavily restricted due to heightened security, disrupting the traffic system. Metro bus and electric bus services between Rawalpindi and Islamabad have also been suspended.
The reduced supply of goods to the vegetable market and road blockages have caused shortages of essential daily items, creating severe difficulties for the public. Prolonged road closures have not only affected commercial centers but also basic necessities of daily life. Suspension of transport and use of longer alternative routes have increased freight costs, directly impacting prices.
With goods transport halted, warehouse stocks have begun to run out, leading to an unusual surge in prices.
The suspension of goods transport has also increased the prices of flour, sugar, meat, and construction materials. Oil tankers being stranded has disrupted the supply of petroleum products, further contributing to overall inflation.
Tensions between Iran and the United States, along with local road closures, have also caused the prices of construction materials-such as sand, cement, steel bars, and other materials-to rise by up to 100%.
Political and social leaders in Islamabad stated that facilitating talks between two countries is a positive step, but it should not come at the cost of such mismanagement that makes life unbearable for citizens.