The authorities have declared two local holidays in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Thursday and Friday to ensure security for scheduled peace talks between Iran and the United States.
Due to the sensitivity and importance of the talks, comprehensive security measures have been put in place, involving all law enforcement agencies and security forces.
A hotel located within the Red Zone has been reserved for the delegations and vacated on government instructions, with heightened security deployed in and around the premises.
Sources told that under the federal government’s directives, the hotel management had asked the guests to vacate the premises. The management through a letter has informed the guests that the government had requisitioned the hotel for an important event till Sunday evening.
According to a notification issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, April 9 and 10 (Thursday and Friday) have been declared local holidays across the Islamabad Capital Territory, except for essential services. These services include the Municipal Corporation Islamabad, the Capital Development Authority, the Islamabad Capital Territory administration, Islamabad Police, Islamabad Electric Supply Corporation, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, and hospitals.
However, the police facilitation centres meant to issue driving licences and other services would remain closed for the public.
Meanwhile, all state-run rescue departments and hospitals have been put on high alert.
They have been asked to remain on standby and ensure the availability of staff and essential supplies, the sources added.
A series of meetings has also been held in the twin cities on Wednesday to review security arrangements and devise strategies for the coming days, while more meetings are scheduled late at night.
The sources further said that the Red Zone would remain completely sealed during the stay of the delegates in the capital. In addition, the high-security zone starting from Faisal Avenue would also be sealed, depending on the status of the visiting delegations.
