Public Transport Halted in Lahore and Islamabad as Section 144 Imposed Across Punjab

Public life in Lahore and Islamabad has come to a sudden standstill after all metro and bus services were suspended on Sunday, October 12, 2025. The shutdown has left thousands of commuters, students, and office workers stranded, creating major difficulties across both cities.

Transport Services Suspended

According to officials, all major public transport operations — including Lahore’s Metro Bus, Orange Line Train, and other intercity bus routes — have been stopped due to security and law-and-order concerns. Terminals such as City Terminal and Rahbar Terminal have also been closed until further notice.

In Islamabad, the Metro Bus service and Capital Development Authority (CDA) buses are also off the roads. Authorities have described the suspension as temporary but said it is necessary to ensure public safety.

The halt has caused widespread disruption, with long queues forming at ride-hailing points and taxi stands. Many residents have reported being unable to reach workplaces, hospitals, or schools. Traffic congestion has also worsened in several areas as people turn to private vehicles and motorbikes to move around.

Educational Institutions Closed

The Punjab Education Department has announced the closure of all schools, colleges, and universities in Lahore due to the transport shutdown and restricted road access. Officials stated that it had become unsafe for students to commute, especially as several main routes remain blocked.

Punjab University, one of the largest educational institutions in the province, has suspended on-campus classes and directed students to vacate hostels for safety reasons. The university also postponed its LLB exams scheduled for October 12, while exams planned for October 13 will continue as per the existing timetable.

The Higher Education Department has confirmed that all public and private colleges in Lahore will remain closed until the situation stabilizes.

Section 144 Enforced Across Punjab

To maintain peace and prevent any untoward incidents, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province for ten days. Under this order, gatherings of more than four people in public areas, streets, or open spaces are banned.

The restrictions, however, do not apply to religious gatherings, prayers, weddings, funerals, offices, or courts. Alongside this, the government has also prohibited the public display of weapons, political rallies, and use of loudspeakers in open spaces.

Officials say these measures are precautionary and aim to keep the public safe amid rising tensions in some parts of the province.

Impact on Daily Life

The combined effect of transport suspension and movement restrictions has disrupted the daily routines of millions. Office attendance has dropped sharply as employees struggle to find alternate means of travel. Many businesses in downtown Lahore and Blue Area Islamabad reported fewer customers, while delivery and ride-hailing services also faced delays.

For students and families, the sudden closure of educational institutions has added to the uncertainty. Parents have been advised to keep children indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

Government Advises Caution

Authorities have urged citizens to stay home, avoid large gatherings, and follow official updates through verified news channels and government platforms. Police and district administrations in both cities are on high alert, and security has been strengthened at key locations, including bus stations, metro terminals, and government offices.

While no timeline has been officially announced for the restoration of services, officials say transport operations will resume once the security situation improves.

Summary

• All Metro Bus and Orange Line services in Lahore and Islamabad are suspended.

• Schools, colleges, and universities in Lahore are closed until further notice.

• Section 144 is enforced across Punjab for ten days.

• Public gatherings, rallies, and weapon displays are banned.

• Citizens are urged to remain cautious and follow official advisories.

The situation remains tense but under control, with the government focusing on restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety of all citizens.