(By Web Desk – Apr 20, 2026)
Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon on Sunday debunked a fraudulent notification spreading on social media, which falsely asserted that all government and private workplaces in Islamabad and Rawalpindi would shut down starting April 20.
Simultaneously, the Deputy Commissioner confirmed that schools across the capital will remain operational on Monday, noting that no official order for their closure has been issued. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Memon cautioned the public against disseminating fabricated reports, advising them to trust only verified district administration channels for accurate information.
Red Zone Restrictions and Remote Work
Despite the general dismissal of a city-wide shutdown, a specific directive from the Cabinet Division mandated that all federal ministries and government departments within Islamabad’s Red Zone shift to a work-from-home model on April 20. The order emphasized that all personnel must remain available and ready to report to their offices immediately if summoned.
Furthermore, the Islamabad District Magistrate announced that access to the Red Zone would be restricted on Monday. To mitigate travel disruptions, the magistrate suggested that schools and businesses located within this specific perimeter “may adopt a work-from-home arrangement.”
Security Measures and Transport Halts
Law enforcement confirmed that the Red Zone has been cordoned off to accommodate visiting foreign dignitaries, with several traffic diversions now in effect. Both public transit and heavy vehicle movement have been paused in Islamabad until further notice. Similarly, the Rawalpindi administration halted all commercial and public transport services starting Sunday afternoon.
US Peace Delegation and Ceasefire Negotiations
The heightened security coincides with an announcement by US President Donald Trump, who stated that his representatives are scheduled to land in Islamabad on Monday night. Their arrival comes just 24 hours before the expiration of a 14-day ceasefire.
Conflicting reports emerged regarding the delegation’s lineup. While a White House representative initially identified Vice President JD Vance—who spearheaded previous negotiations—as the lead, alongside Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, Trump later suggested to major news outlets like ABC News and MS Now that Vance might not participate in this trip.
Ground Preparations
Pakistan continues to facilitate its role as a primary negotiator. Security sources confirmed that two US C-17 cargo aircraft arrived at a local airbase on Sunday, delivering essential vehicles and security gear for the incoming team. In downtown Islamabad, authorities have reinforced the area surrounding the Serena Hotel with barbed wire, and the hotel—site of previous peace summits—has instructed all current guests to vacate the premises.
