The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) executed a detailed traffic management plan on Monday to facilitate the 6th Muharram processions in sectors F-11 and I-9, as well as along the Express Highway, ensuring smooth movement for mourners while maintaining traffic flow in the federal capital.
Procession Routes and Traffic Restrictions
According to police officials, special security and traffic arrangements remained in place throughout the day for the religious processions, with diversions introduced on key routes to minimize congestion and ensure public safety. In Sector F-11, the procession commenced from House No. 366, Street No. 37, F-11/3 and concluded at Imambargah Bhika Syedan in F-11/4. Traffic remained restricted on Colonel Sher Khan Road, adjoining service roads, Exchange Chowk, and sections of the Double Road between F-11/2 and F-11/3. Residents were advised to use Karam Road, Hilal Road, and Margalla Road as alternate routes.
Express Highway and Khanna Area Arrangements
Another procession originated from the Khanna area and proceeded to Imambargah Qasr-e-Sakina near Sihala-Shakrial on the Express Highway. As part of the traffic management plan, sections of the Express Highway between Shakrial-Koral and Faizabad remained closed during the procession. Heavy vehicles arriving from Lahore were diverted through Rawat T-Cross towards Rawalpindi, while light traffic was redirected via Airport Road, Rawal Road, and Murree Road. Traffic from Koral was diverted through the Khanna underpass loop, Khanna Bridge, Lehtrar Road, and Captain Muhammad Tufail Niazi Shaheed (Tramri) Road before proceeding towards Park Road and Rawal Dam Chowk.
Procession in Sector I-9
In Sector I-9, a procession began from the residence of Raja Bashir in I-9/1 and concluded at Imambargah Jafria after passing through designated streets within the sector. Traffic diversions remained in place at the Service Road U-turn and near Street No. 18 adjacent to the Imambargah. Residents travelling towards Rawalpindi, Faizabad, Pirwadhai, and Katarian were directed to use IJP Road, while residents of I-9/2 were advised to travel via the Monday Bazaar Service Road.
Deployment and Public Advisory
Traffic police personnel remained deployed along all procession routes to regulate traffic and facilitate mourners. Citizens were urged to cooperate with law enforcement officials, use designated parking areas, and follow alternative routes where necessary. The Islamabad Traffic Police also kept road users informed through its social media platforms and FM 92.4, providing real-time updates on traffic conditions and diversions throughout the day.
