Islamabad, the city once known for its calm and orderly roads, is now facing severe daily traffic jams that have effectively held the capital hostage. From Zero Point to Faisal Avenue and from Blue Area to the Expressway, commuters are experiencing hours-long gridlocks almost every day.
Office workers, students, and public transport users complain that what used to be a 20-minute trip now often takes more than an hour. The unending congestion is not only causing frustration but also affecting businesses, public services, and emergency response times.
Experts blame a combination of factors, including ongoing construction work, lack of alternative routes, poor traffic light synchronization, and the rising number of vehicles entering the capital. Many citizens have also pointed to ineffective traffic management and inadequate enforcement during peak hours.
Authorities say traffic police are working to ease pressure through diversions and increased deployment, but commuters argue that the measures are not enough to handle the daily chaos.
With no long-term plan announced yet, residents fear that Islamabad’s traffic crisis could worsen in the coming weeks unless immediate steps are taken.
