Pakistan: Kashmir Solidarity Day to be observed nationwide Feb. 5

Event

Pakistan will observe its annual Kashmir Solidarity Day holiday nationwide Feb. 5. Various civic, religious, and political groups will organize processions, rallies, conferences, and cultural events to mark the day. In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, activists typically form a human chain along major routes leading in and out of the territory. In Lahore, the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) party will hold a march from Liberty Chowk to the Punjab Assembly Hall beginning at 13:00. Other political parties and organizations are likely to stage rallies near local press clubs, public squares, prominent mosques, major thoroughfares, university campuses, and the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.

Authorities typically monitor demonstrations as a precaution; enhanced security checks are certain near government buildings. Although most gatherings will likely remain peaceful, localized security disturbances cannot be ruled out. Significant traffic delays are likely, especially in urban areas. Public transport typically operates normally in most areas, though officials may impose road closures or route diversions for crowd control. As Kashmir Solidarity Day is a public holiday in Pakistan, government offices, banks, educational institutions, and many businesses will remain closed.

Advice

Confirm all business appointments, road status, and transport reservations for Feb. 5. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Monitor local media for updates on rally venues, as organizers may not announce them in advance. Exercise caution and allow additional time for ground travel near demonstration sites, especially in major cities. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.