Internet Services and Roads Reopen Nationwide
On Wednesday morning, internet services were restored in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. In addition, major roads, motorways, and highways that had been blocked due to protests were reopened.
Motorways such as M2, M11, M4, and M5, along with entry and exit routes in Lahore, including Ravi Bridge, Old Ravi Bridge, Sagian Bridge, and Thokar Niaz Beg, were cleared. Other key routes in Punjab cities, including Raiwind, Ferozepur, Gajumata, Wazirabad, Gujrat, and the Grand Trunk Road, were also made accessible.
Schools to Reopen in the Twin Cities
Schools in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, which were closed due to the protests, are scheduled to reopen on Thursday, according to official statements.
Successful Crackdown by Law Enforcement Agencies
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi lauded the efforts of the Pakistan Army, Punjab Police, Pakistan Rangers, and Frontier Corps (FC) for their efficient crackdown on PTI protestors.
“Nowhere in the federal capital could PTI workers be seen in groups,” Naqvi noted, highlighting the success of the operation that resulted in numerous arrests. Jinnah Avenue leading to D-Chowk, which had been a hotspot for demonstrations, was reopened after being off-limits for three days.
Punjab Chief Minister Thanks Public
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif thanked the people of Punjab for opposing "sedition and anarchists." In her statement, she commended citizens for maintaining peace during the unrest and directed the opening of all major routes in Punjab.
Motorways and Toll Plazas Operational Again
All motorway sections closed on November 22 for maintenance were reopened. Barricades and containers at critical points such as the Chenab Toll Plaza and Jhelum Bridge were removed, enabling smooth traffic flow.
Key Statements from Authorities
- Mohsin Naqvi: “Today is a new day. For how long will you [PTI] keep doing this? Please stop now.”
- Maryam Nawaz Sharif: Praised the resilience of Punjab's people and the swift response of law enforcement.
Normalcy Returns to Major Cities
With the opening of all blocked routes, vehicles resumed their usual flow in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and other parts of the country. Markets, businesses, and schools are expected to resume full operations, marking the end of days-long disruptions.