A prolonged transport shutdown in Rawalpindi and Islamabad has pushed thousands of workers into unemployment, severely impacting daily livelihoods across the region.
45 Terminals Closed, Operations Halted
For the past 12 days, long-route luxury and heavy transport services have remained suspended due to uncertainty linked to ongoing Iran–US developments. As a result, around 45 transport terminals in the twin cities have been completely shut down.
According to Beyond Time News, this sudden halt has disrupted routine travel and brought the local transport network to a standstill.
20,000 Transport Workers Affected
The shutdown has left nearly 20,000 workers jobless, including drivers, conductors, and helpers. In addition, 2,632 bus hostesses have lost their source of income.
Transport companies have placed employees on unpaid leave, promising to call them back once operations resume. However, with no clear timeline, many workers are struggling to cope.
Bus Hostesses Forced to Leave Hostels
The impact has been especially harsh on bus hostesses working in areas like Pirwadhai. Due to unpaid rent, many have been forced to vacate their hostel accommodations.
One hostess shared that most workers rely on commissions rather than fixed salaries. With services halted, their earnings have dropped to zero. Many have already returned to their hometowns, unsure if they will be called back.
Small Businesses Hit Hard
The closure of terminals has also affected dozens of small businesses operating nearby. Tea stalls, food vendors, cigarette kiosks, and roadside eateries have all shut down.
Each terminal typically supports several small vendors, meaning hundreds more workers have lost their daily income.
Workshops and Spare Parts Shops Shut
Vehicle workshops and spare parts shops near the terminals have also been badly affected. With buses and vans off the roads, repair work has completely stopped.
As a result, these businesses have seen almost no activity, adding to the growing economic pressure in the area.
Transport Activity Comes to a Standstill
On a normal day, thousands of vehicles—including buses, vans, and coaches—operate in and out of these terminals. Now, that movement has dropped to zero.
The Transport Federation estimates that between 10,000 and 11,000 vehicles use these routes daily, highlighting the scale of disruption caused by the shutdown.
Islamabad Security Lockdown Eases as Twin Cities
Industry Faces Severe Losses
Transport representatives say the situation has caused heavy financial losses within just two weeks. Some terminal owners are trying to support workers with basic rations, but this is not sustainable.
They have suggested setting up temporary roadside facilities in areas like Chungi No. 22 or Rawat to allow limited operations and reduce the burden on workers.
Uncertain Future for Workers
With no clear reopening date, thousands of families are now facing financial uncertainty. Many workers fear that if the shutdown continues, they may have to find alternative jobs or permanently leave the industry.
The ongoing crisis highlights how quickly disruptions in transport services can affect not just travel, but entire communities and local economies.
