Islamabad to Observe Three-Day Public Holiday for SCO Summit

The Prime Minister of Pakistan has declared a three-day public holiday in Islamabad and Rawalpindi from October 14th to October 16th, 2024 (Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday).

This decision has been made to facilitate the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting, which will be hosted in Islamabad.

The announcement of closed holidays affects both the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and the Rawalpindi District. During this time, all public offices, educational institutions, and businesses in these areas will remain closed, aiming to ensure the smooth conduct of the high-profile summit. The SCO meeting will gather leaders and officials from member countries, discussing strategic partnerships, regional cooperation, and security issues.

Residents and commuters in the Islamabad-Rawalpindi region should prepare for road closures, security checks, and potential traffic disruptions. Authorities are expected to implement heightened security measures to ensure the safety of visiting dignitaries and maintain order throughout the event.

The government has encouraged citizens to stay informed and plan their activities accordingly to avoid inconvenience during these days. The three-day holiday provides an opportunity for locals to avoid unnecessary travel and allows the authorities to manage logistical arrangements for the summit smoothly.