Metro Bus, Orange Line Train Suspended in Islamabad and Lahore

Public transport in Islamabad and Lahore came to a sudden stop on Thursday after authorities suspended both the Metro Bus and Orange Line Train services amid security warnings. The decision, officials said, was taken to protect passengers after intelligence reports pointed to possible protests near major transit corridors.

Islamabad Metro Bus Shutdown

The Rawalpindi–Islamabad Metro Bus Service, which connects Saddar Station to Pak Secretariat, was halted early in the morning.

Passengers arriving at closed stations were caught off guard.

“We rely on this route every day. No prior notice was given,” said Ahmed Khan, a commuter from Saddar to Blue Area. “Now we’re forced to look for expensive alternatives.”

Authorities said the suspension is temporary and will be reviewed once the situation stabilizes.

Orange Line Train Halted in Lahore

In Lahore, the Punjab Mass Transit Authority (PMA) also halted the Orange Line Metro Train after law enforcement agencies advised heightened security along Multan Road and Dera Gujran.
Several stations were sealed and police deployed at sensitive locations.

“It’s a safety-first call,” said a PMA spokesperson. “Operations will resume when the risk subsides.”

Thousands of commuters were left stranded, forcing many to switch to ride-hailing services, private vans, and minibuses. Fares reportedly spiked, with drivers charging nearly double during peak hours.

Commuter Disruption and Economic Impact

The twin shutdowns have strained daily routines across both cities.

“The traffic on alternate routes is unbearable,” said Saira Malik, a Lahore resident. “It feels like the city is back in pre-metro days.”

Transport analysts caution that such frequent suspensions can undermine public trust in Pakistan’s expanding urban mobility systems  projects meant to provide affordable and sustainable commuting options.

Past Precedents and Ongoing Reviews

Temporary halts in mass transit aren’t new. In late 2024, similar closures were ordered in Islamabad during political demonstrations that lasted four days.
Officials from both the RDA and PMA confirmed that services will resume once law and order improves.

Commuters are urged to stay informed via the official social media pages of PMA and RDA for service updates.

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The Bigger Picture

Experts emphasize that consistent communication, quick resumption, and crisis-response planning are vital to maintain commuter confidence.
Public transport remains a lifeline for working class citizens  and ensuring uninterrupted operations is key to the economic heartbeat of Pakistan’s major cities.