Islamabad residents bear cost of Pakistan's US-Iran mediation

Next round of talk remains uncertain; semi-lockdown disrupts daily life in capital city

Traffic congestion in Pakistan on April 24 due to road closures implemented by authorities, following the suspension of transport and closure of markets on security restrictions, as Pakistan prepares to host U.S. and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad. © Reuters

ISLAMABAD -- Approaching Islamabad's city center from suburban areas now means a nightmarish journey even for local Pakistanis. With a series of checkpoints staffed by police, paramilitary forces and the army, travelers need to brace themselves for a trip that is twice to three times as long to reach their destinations.