The authorities in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad have strongly denied circulating reports claiming that shops and bus terminals are being forcibly closed under official orders.
In this regard, as per the official statements released by district administrations, no directives have been given to shut down commercial activities or transport hubs in either city.
A spokesperson for the Islamabad district administration clarified that no such notifications or instructions have been issued at any level.
“The public is advised not to pay attention to rumors or unconfirmed news circulating on social media or through unofficial channels,” the statement read.
Similarly, the Rawalpindi district administration issued a parallel clarification, reiterating that the reports regarding forced closures are entirely fake.
وفاقی دارالحکومت میں دکانیں اور بس اڈے بند کروانے کی خبروں پر ضلعی انتظامیہ اسلام آباد کی وضاحت
ضلعی انتظامیہ کی جانب سے اسلام آباد میں دکانیں یا بس اڈے بند کروانے کی خبروں کی سختی سے تردید کرتے ہوئے واضع کیا گیا ہے کہ اسلام آباد میں ایسے کسی بھی قسم کے احکامات جاری نہیں کیے…
— DC Islamabad (@dcislamabad) April 18, 2026
The administrations further warned that spreading misinformation can create unnecessary panic and disrupt public order.
This clarification comes amid a surge in misleading social media posts, highlighting the growing challenge of fake news in times of uncertainty. Authorities urged media outlets and the public alike to act responsibly and support efforts to maintain calm and stability.
The residents of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are advised to continue their daily routines without concern and to report any suspicious or false information to relevant authorities.
