Islamabad Metro Bus suspended during Iranian president visit

Authorities have announced the suspension of Metro Bus services across Islamabad on Tuesday as extensive security arrangements are put in place ahead of the official visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD: Authorities have announced the suspension of Metro Bus services across Islamabad on Tuesday as extensive security arrangements are put in place ahead of the official visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Pakistan.

According to Metro Bus management, operations within the federal capital will remain completely halted throughout the day to facilitate the movement of official delegations and ensure the implementation of security protocols. The temporary suspension is expected to affect thousands of daily commuters who rely on the public transport system.

Officials clarified that Metro Bus services in Rawalpindi will continue operating on a limited schedule from 6:00am to 7:00pm. Passengers will be able to travel between Saddar Station and Faizabad, while services on the Islamabad section of the route, from IJP Road to the Pakistan Secretariat, will remain suspended until further notice.

In addition to transport restrictions, authorities have also closed all hiking trails in Islamabad as part of heightened security measures. Security personnel have been deployed at key locations across the city, while monitoring and surveillance arrangements have been strengthened to ensure a smooth and secure visit.

President Pezeshkian is scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on Tuesday for an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and discussing regional developments. The visit comes at a time of increasing diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and Iran, with both countries seeking to enhance cooperation in trade, security and regional stability.

Iranian officials have indicated that one of the key purposes of the visit is to acknowledge Pakistan’s role in facilitating diplomatic dialogue between Iran and the United States. Islamabad has recently been credited with supporting efforts to reduce tensions and encourage negotiations between the two countries.

During his stay, President Pezeshkian is expected to hold meetings with senior Pakistani leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Discussions are likely to focus on bilateral cooperation, economic partnerships, border management and regional peace initiatives.

Iranian authorities have also said that the president intends to express appreciation for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and its commitment to promoting dialogue and conflict resolution in the region.

Meanwhile, Islamabad has been adorned with welcome banners, flags and decorative lighting to mark the visit of the Iranian leader. Special arrangements have been made at key government buildings and official venues, while security remains on high alert across the federal capital.