Rawalpindi Road Closed for 5 Days – CTP Announces Full Diversion Plan
The City Traffic Police (CTP) Rawalpindi has announced a comprehensive traffic diversion plan following the closure of a key route in the city for the next five days. The move comes as part of security arrangements and crowd management for the Pakistan vs South Africa Test Match 2025, currently being held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
According to an official update shared by the CTP at 10:00 AM on Monday, October 20, traffic across most areas of Rawalpindi is moving normally. However, the department has confirmed that one of the city’s busiest stretches — Stadium Road — will remain temporarily closed for all types of traffic until the conclusion of the match.
The announcement of this Rawalpindi road closure has drawn attention from residents and daily commuters, many of whom travel through the area for work, education, or shopping.
Why the Road Is Closed: Security and Smooth Flow of the Event
Officials explained that the Rawalpindi road closed decision is part of a larger plan to ensure smooth transportation and maximum safety during the five-day Test match. Stadium Road — running from Double Road to 9th Avenue — directly connects to the main entrances of the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, making it a high-security zone during international matches.
The CTP Rawalpindi traffic plan aims to avoid congestion, prevent unauthorized vehicle movement near the venue, and facilitate safe passage for players, officials, and spectators.
Security authorities are working closely with the Rawalpindi district administration to manage both pedestrian and vehicular movement, ensuring minimum disturbance to routine city life.
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Traffic Across the City Remains Smooth
Despite the Stadium Road closure, traffic flow across other major routes remains smooth and uninterrupted, according to the CTP’s latest Rawalpindi traffic update.
Main arteries including Murree Road, Liaquat Bagh Chowk, Airport Road, and Peshawar Road are fully open, with no reported congestion. Traffic wardens have been deployed at critical junctions to maintain order and assist drivers with alternative routes.
The CTP spokesperson noted, “Our team is on duty across the city to ensure that traffic keeps moving normally. We urge citizens to cooperate and follow instructions to avoid unnecessary delays.”
Alternative Routes: How to Avoid Congestion
The CTP Rawalpindi traffic plan has outlined several alternative routes for commuters affected by the closure:
- Vehicles coming from Double Road towards the stadium will be diverted via Rawal Road and IJP Road.
- Motorists traveling from 9th Avenue will be directed towards Faizabad and Chandni Chowk.
- Public transport will not be allowed to enter the blocked area and will follow designated detours.
- Parking around the stadium premises has been completely restricted for security reasons.
Citizens are advised to leave earlier than usual and plan their journeys with extra time to avoid frustration during peak hours. The department has also set up mobile units at major intersections to guide and assist travelers.
CTP Deploys Additional Traffic Wardens
To ensure effective implementation of the Rawalpindi road closure, the CTP has assigned extra traffic wardens and officers in and around key points of the city.
These personnel are stationed to:
- Manage diversions and reroute vehicles smoothly.
- Provide guidance to the public through megaphones and signboards.
- Prevent illegal parking and roadside blockages.
- Monitor emergency routes for ambulances and essential vehicles.
The department is also using CCTV cameras installed across the city for real-time traffic monitoring. Senior officers are supervising the control room and field operations to ensure quick response in case of any issues.
FM Radio 88.6 and Social Media Updates for Citizens
The City Traffic Police has emphasized the importance of staying informed. Commuters can get real-time updates by tuning into CTP FM Radio 88.6, where regular announcements regarding route conditions and diversions are being broadcast throughout the day.
In addition, the official social media pages of the Rawalpindi Traffic Police on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) are posting live updates, including video alerts and maps of affected areas.
Officials encouraged the public to rely only on verified CTP platforms instead of social media rumors.
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Authorities Appeal for Cooperation
CTP spokesperson Raja Shahid urged Rawalpindi residents to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers and traffic personnel during the five-day restriction.
“This temporary closure is part of a major international event that brings pride to Pakistan. We understand the inconvenience it may cause, but these arrangements are essential for maintaining safety and order,” he said.
He added that citizen patience and discipline are vital to keeping Rawalpindi’s traffic running smoothly during the match days.
The CTP also reminded the public that ignoring diversion signs, wrong parking, or arguing with wardens may lead to fines and vehicle impoundment under traffic laws.
Public Response: Mixed Reactions from Residents
As news of the Rawalpindi road closure spread, reactions from citizens poured in across social media. Many supported the move, saying it was necessary for security and the smooth conduct of an international cricket event.
However, regular commuters and business owners near the stadium expressed concern about the impact on their daily routines. Shopkeepers on Double Road reported reduced customer footfall, while school bus drivers complained about longer routes and extended travel times.
Some residents suggested that the city should explore partial closures or shuttle services for big events to reduce disruption in future.
Despite the inconvenience, most citizens acknowledged that CTP Rawalpindi’s proactive communication through radio and social platforms has helped minimize confusion and chaos.
Cricket Fever Grips Rawalpindi Despite Traffic Restrictions
The Pakistan vs South Africa Test Match 2025 has turned Rawalpindi into the center of cricket excitement. Fans from across the country have gathered to cheer for the national team, making the stadium a hub of enthusiasm and energy.
The presence of senior players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and debutant Asif Afridi, who made headlines for his remarkable Test debut at age 38, has added even more buzz to the event.
Authorities have ensured that these celebrations continue safely, even if it means temporarily adjusting the city’s traffic plan.
The Rawalpindi road closed decision, therefore, reflects not just a security step — but a commitment to ensuring that international cricket returns to Pakistan with the highest safety standards.
Officials Monitoring Road Conditions Closely
The CTP’s control room is continuously tracking real-time updates from ground teams. Field officers remain in constant communication with district administration and police units deployed around the stadium.
If required, the CTP has the authority to open or close specific points temporarily based on crowd movement and match schedules. The department reassured the public that road conditions are being monitored round the clock, and any change in the traffic plan will be promptly communicated.
Impact on Local Businesses and Commuters
The closure of Stadium Road for five days has impacted nearby business hubs and markets, especially in Double Road, Commercial Market, and 9th Avenue. However, most traders have welcomed the international event, saying it boosts Rawalpindi’s reputation as a safe and organized city.
Commuters traveling between Islamabad and Rawalpindi are advised to use IJP Road, Peshawar Road, and Rawal Road to avoid detours. Ride-hailing services like Careem and InDriver have also been informed to adjust their route algorithms for accurate travel times.
Public Safety and Law Enforcement Coordination
The Rawalpindi district administration, police, and emergency services are working hand-in-hand to manage the event. The Rescue 1122 teams are on standby near the stadium and major intersections to respond to any medical or traffic emergencies.
All entry and exit points near the cricket stadium are under 24-hour surveillance, ensuring that both security and convenience go hand in hand.
Officials confirmed that all necessary steps have been taken to ensure public safety while maintaining normal urban activity across the rest of the city.
CTP’s Advice: Plan Your Routes Early
The CTP strongly recommends that residents plan their travel schedules ahead of time. Those commuting to schools, offices, or hospitals near the affected zones should leave early to avoid last-minute traffic jams.
Authorities emphasized the following:
- Use Google Maps or CTP FM updates for route guidance.
- Respect diversion signs and traffic cones.
- Avoid unnecessary visits near the stadium.
- Cooperate with wardens; they are there to assist, not inconvenience.
By following these simple steps, citizens can play their part in keeping the city organized and functional during the high-profile cricket match.
Conclusion: City Adjusts for Cricket, CTP Ensures Control
The Rawalpindi road closed update is a reminder that managing a growing city during major international events requires balance, planning, and public cooperation.
The City Traffic Police’s swift implementation of the Rawalpindi traffic diversion plan shows effective coordination, ensuring that while one part of the city pauses for security, the rest keeps moving without disruption.
For now, Rawalpindi stands as a proud host of another international cricket fixture — blending passion, patience, and planning to show the world how Pakistan manages both sports and civic responsibility with excellence.
