Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Murree, and Lahore implement vehicle bans, diversions, and high-alert deployments ahead of August 13–14, 2025 celebrations.
Nation Gears Up for Independence Day 2025 with Tightened Security
As Pakistan prepares to celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 14, 2025, authorities in key cities have rolled out comprehensive traffic and security plans to handle massive public gatherings, parades, and tourist inflows. The measures also cover the “Battle of Truth” events, which are expected to draw large crowds in the twin cities. Officials say their top priorities are public safety, smooth traffic flow, and prevention of untoward incidents.
Rawalpindi–Islamabad: Heavy Vehicles Barred, Diversions Enforced
The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) confirmed that all heavy vehicles will be prohibited from entering Rawalpindi from 12:00 pm on August 13 until 3:00 am on August 14.
- GT Road Peshawar traffic toward Rawalpindi will be halted at Sangjani.
- GT Road Lahore traffic will be stopped at T Chowk.
- Heavy vehicles on the motorway from Peshawar or Lahore will not be allowed to enter Islamabad via link roads during this period.
Extra traffic wardens and NHMP personnel will be stationed at diversion points to assist motorists. Meanwhile, security checkpoints will be increased along major roads into Islamabad, with vehicle inspections and ID verification in place as part of a heightened security sweep.
Murree: Tourist Hotspot Prepares for Record Crowds
Murree is expecting tens of thousands of visitors during the long holiday weekend. The Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) has announced a high-capacity plan to manage the rush:
- Over 200 traffic officers will be deployed to key points.
- Main Access Routes: The Murree Expressway and RMK GT Road will remain open for incoming traffic from Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
- One-Way Traffic: View Forth Road, Bank Road, Hall Road, Kuldana Road, and Imtiaz Shaheed Road will operate in one direction only.
- Mall Road Closure: Mall Road will be fully pedestrianized for the celebrations.
Murree has been split into five traffic sectors for coordinated management. Heavy vehicles, including buses and trucks, will be barred from 6:00 am to 2:00 am, with checkpoints at Murree Brewery, Bansra Gali, and Lower Topa.
Parking Restrictions: No parking will be allowed within 200 meters of key intersections like GPO Chowk and Kuldana Chowk. Dedicated parking zones will be available, and vehicles violating rules may be towed.
A Traffic Control Room will operate at 051-9269200 to provide guidance, report obstructions, or help locate missing persons or property.
Lahore: City-Wide Security Operation for 14 August 2025
Lahore’s administration is preparing for one of the largest Independence Day gatherings in years, with main celebration points including Minar-e-Pakistan, Greater Iqbal Park, Liberty Chowk, and along Canal Road.
- Manpower: Over 5,000 police personnel will be deployed, including plainclothes operatives for crowd monitoring.
- Snap-Checking: Strict inspections at city entry and exit points; roadblocks and barriers at sensitive spots.
- Motorcycle Restrictions: Pillion riding may be restricted in sensitive zones depending on the security situation.
- Traffic Plan: Temporary closures around celebration hubs, special parking areas for visitors, and advisory for early arrivals to avoid congestion.
Authorities have also confirmed aerial surveillance of high-footfall areas and rescue teams on standby for emergencies.
Public Advisory for 2025 Independence Day
Citizens in all cities are urged to:
- Follow diversion plans and signage.
- Park only in official parking areas.
- Carry valid identification at all times.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement.
Officials stress that these measures are not only for traffic regulation but also as part of a nationwide security protocol for Independence Day 2025.