Three-Day Public Holidays Announced in Islamabad and Rawalpindi

Important news for the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi! A three-day public holiday has been declared in both cities due to the upcoming 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting, scheduled to take place in Islamabad. The federal government has announced these holidays from October 14 to October 16, 2024, to ensure smooth operations and enhanced security during this significant event.

Government Offices and Educational Institutions to Close

During the 23rd SCO meeting holidays, all government offices and private educational institutions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi will remain closed. This decision, approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, aims to minimize disruptions during the high-level two-day summit. The event will host global leaders, including the prime ministers of Russia and China, along with India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

Enhanced Security Measures for the SCO Summit

In preparation for the 2024 SCO summit, the federal government has deployed the army in Islamabad under Article 245 to ensure tight security. The deployment, effective from October 5 to October 17, 2024, is aimed at providing comprehensive protection for international delegates and leaders attending the 23rd SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting. The summit will be held from October 14 to October 16, 2024, with military and law enforcement agencies on high alert throughout the event to maintain security.