Traffic police issue plan ahead of Pakistan-Sri Lanka series in Rawalpindi
More than 321 traffic officers and wardens will be deployed around the stadium and on major roads to manage traffic and guide motorists during the matches and team movements. The arrangements have been made to keep traffic moving on alternative routes while ensuring the safe movement of the visiting cricket teams.
Traffic diversions will be imposed for the shortest possible time when the teams travel to and from the stadium. The first practice session between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is also scheduled at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with traffic police preparing for increased movement around the venue.
Stadium Road to remain closed during matches
One of the major changes under the traffic plan concerns Stadium Road.
The road will remain completely closed to traffic in both directions from 9th Avenue Chowk to Double Road during the matches.
Motorists using this route will therefore have to choose alternative roads to reach Rawalpindi or Islamabad.
Traffic coming from Islamabad towards Rawalpindi through 9th Avenue will be diverted towards Faizabad and the Islamabad Expressway.
Motorists will also be able to use I.J.P. Road and enter Rawalpindi through routes including Pandora Chowk, Katarian, Carriage Factory, Pirwadhai Morr and Chak Madad.
The arrangements are intended to reduce congestion around the stadium while allowing the cricket teams to move safely.
Alternative routes announced for motorists
Traffic travelling from Rawalpindi towards 9th Avenue and Islamabad will be diverted through Murree Road and Faizabad. During the movement of the teams, traffic from Murree Road towards Islamabad will also be temporarily diverted at 6th Road.
Commuters will be able to use Saidpur Road via 6th Road to enter Islamabad. Traffic approaching Rawalpindi from Islamabad will be diverted from Faizabad towards the Islamabad Expressway.
Meanwhile, vehicles coming from Ghousia Chowk will be diverted towards Kurri Road through Farooq-e-Azam Road. Motorists have been advised to follow traffic wardens and use the designated alternative routes rather than attempting to enter restricted roads.
Traffic diversions to be temporary
Traffic police said diversions during the movement of the cricket teams would remain in place for the shortest possible period.
Additional personnel will be deployed at important diversion points to guide motorists and help maintain a smooth flow of traffic. The temporary restrictions are expected to affect motorists travelling between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, particularly around the stadium and major connecting roads.
Citizens travelling through the affected areas have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly. The traffic plan is aimed at balancing the security requirements of the cricket teams with the daily transportation needs of residents.
Three parking areas designated for spectators
Three parking areas have also been designated for cricket spectators.
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These include the Civil Aviation Ground near Shaheen Chowk, Shahbaz Sharif Park near Shaheen Chowk and the Government Graduate Degree College in Satellite Town. The designated parking arrangements are intended to reduce pressure on roads around the stadium.
Spectators have been advised to use the designated parking facilities instead of parking vehicles on roads close to the cricket venue. The arrangements will also help traffic personnel manage the expected increase in vehicles during the matches.
Real-time traffic updates to be shared
Chief Traffic Officer Farhan Aslam said citizens would receive real-time information about traffic conditions and diversion points.
Updates will be shared through the official social media platforms of Rawalpindi City Traffic Police and FM Radio 88.6.
The information is expected to help motorists identify road closures and choose alternative routes before reaching congested areas.
Traffic police have urged citizens to cooperate with personnel deployed at diversion points. Officials said public cooperation would be important for maintaining smooth traffic movement during the cricket matches.
Security arrangements reviewed at stadium
Senior officials have also reviewed security arrangements at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium ahead of the matches.
Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Nadeem Nasir and City Police Officer Hassan Mushtaq Sukhera, along with other senior police officers, visited the stadium and reviewed the arrangements.
The visit came as authorities prepared for the arrival and movement of the cricket teams. Security and traffic arrangements are being coordinated to minimise disruption while ensuring the safety of players, spectators and the general public.
Stadium Road repair work also under focus
The condition of Stadium Road has also drawn attention ahead of the international cricket schedule. Chief Traffic Officer Farhan Aslam has sought the completion of pending repair and carpeting work on the road before the matches.
The road is an important link for residents and commuters travelling between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, as well as for people accessing the stadium and nearby areas. Traffic police have highlighted the need to complete the work to prevent further congestion and inconvenience during the cricket events.
What motorists need to know
Motorists travelling near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium should expect temporary diversions during team movements and road closures during match hours.
Stadium Road between 9th Avenue Chowk and Double Road will be closed in both directions during matches. Drivers should follow instructions from traffic wardens and avoid restricted routes.
People travelling between Rawalpindi and Islamabad should allow additional time for their journeys, particularly around the stadium and Double Road. Spectators should use the designated parking areas and follow traffic police instructions when approaching the venue.
