Authorities in Islamabad on Sunday dismissed a viral notification claiming closure of public and private offices, even as heightened security measures were enforced across key areas of the federal capital ahead of a possible high-level U.S. visit.
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon termed the circulating notice “fake,” clarifying that no blanket shutdown of offices in Islamabad or neighboring Rawalpindi had been ordered. He also confirmed that educational institutions in Islamabad would remain open on Monday, with no decision taken regarding closures.
In a statement on social media, Memon urged citizens to avoid sharing unverified information and rely solely on official government sources for updates.
However, a separate late-night notification issued by the Cabinet Division directed that all ministries, divisions, and federal government offices located in the capital’s Red Zone would operate from home on April 20. Officials and staff were instructed to remain available and report to offices at short notice if required.
In parallel, the district administration announced that entry into the Red Zone would remain suspended for the day. Public and private offices, as well as schools within the area, were advised to adopt work-from-home arrangements to avoid inconvenience.
Police confirmed that the Red Zone had been sealed off to traffic, with alternative routes put in place. Public and heavy transport services within Islamabad were also suspended until further notice. Authorities in Rawalpindi imposed similar restrictions, halting public and goods transport from Sunday noon.
The measures come amid preparations for the expected arrival of a U.S. delegation linked to ongoing diplomatic efforts. Donald Trump stated that American envoys would reach Islamabad on Monday evening, ahead of the expiration of a two-week ceasefire.
According to officials, the delegation is expected to be led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, though conflicting statements from Washington have created uncertainty over his participation. Other reported members include envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Security preparations intensified on Sunday as two U.S. C-17 cargo aircraft landed at a local airbase carrying equipment and vehicles, according to Pakistani security sources. Additional measures included the deployment of barriers and barbed wire near the Serena Hotel Islamabad, where earlier rounds of talks were held. The hotel reportedly asked guests to vacate ahead of the anticipated visit.
The developments indicate a high state of readiness in the capital as Pakistan prepares to host another round of sensitive diplomatic engagements.