A weeklong, lockdown-like security clampdown in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi has sparked frustration among residents, who urged authorities to ease restrictions so they can resume normal commutes.
Roads leading into Islamabad’s heavily guarded Red Zone have appeared deserted at times, with concrete barricades, barbed wire and security personnel dominating normally busy corridors. The absence of routine traffic has added to a sense of disruption in the twin cities.
“We were happy that Pakistan is hosting these talks to end the war between America and Iran. But now almost a week has passed, and it takes me one to two hours instead of 30 minutes, depending on traffic, to reach home from Islamabad to Rawalpindi,” said Sher Khan, a lift operator at a shopping plaza.
There is still no official word on exactly when the talks will take place.
Authorities have deployed thousands of police and paramilitary troops since last weekend.
While Pakistan is still trying to secure Iran’s participation, there has been no confirmation yet on when Tehran will send its delegation. The visit by the U.S. delegation is also on hold.