Islamabad, 26 May, 2025: U-Turns in Islamabad have once again become a familiar sight for city residents, marking a major shift in urban mobility after more than a decade of restricted road access.
The capital’s local authorities have now reopened over 95% of previously sealed U-turns and intersections, restoring direct routes and reducing congestion across key sectors.
Long-Awaited Decision Eases Daily Travel
U-Turns in Islamabad had remained closed since 2011, causing daily frustration for thousands of commuters. These closures often forced motorists to take circuitous routes, adding unnecessary mileage and fuel costs.
However, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, the city administration has reversed this long-standing policy.
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Officials indicated that the decision was the result of coordinated efforts among various departments, and it is intended to be a lasting measure.
Commuters have expressed widespread appreciation for the change, citing shorter travel times and smoother traffic flow.
Concerns Arise Over Traffic Management
Despite the overwhelming public approval, the reopening of U-Turns in Islamabad has also sparked discussion about traffic safety and enforcement.
A senior traffic police officer noted that the restored junctions would require additional manpower, particularly at key intersections lacking signal infrastructure.
Some fear the increased traffic volume may overwhelm current road safety measures. Law enforcement officials are reviewing plans to deploy more personnel and possibly reintroduce signal systems at major points.
Security or Staffing? The Real Reason Behind Past Closures
Initially, the closure of intersections was justified on security and traffic flow grounds. Yet, insiders now reveal that staffing shortages played a more decisive role.
At the height of restrictions, more than 70 crossings had been barricaded, creating hazards for pedestrians especially school children.
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Critics of the original closures claim they compromised pedestrian access and promoted dangerous driving. One Capital Development Authority (CDA) representative mentioned that the disappearance of zebra crossings during the road closures had left Islamabad “signal-free but unsafe.”
With U-Turns in Islamabad now largely reinstated, the city stands at a crossroads between convenience and safety, prompting fresh debate about how best to balance urban efficiency with public well-being.
