Beggars swarm markets in Attock ahead of Eid

ATTOCK: As Eidul Fitr draws nearer, hordes of beggars are flocking to the markets, shopping malls, traffic signals and streets in Attock district.

The beggars, comprising mostly women and children, can be seen swarming cars of shoppers at commercial places and markets of the district, including in Pindi Gheb, Jand, Fatehjang, Hazro, Hassanabdal and Attock City.

Women, mostly carrying newborn babies, can be seen sitting at pedestrian bridges, the centres of markets and bus stops while waiting for shoppers to pass by before asking them for alms.

The local administration and police have yet to chalk out a strategy to deal with the influx of these professional beggars.

“Beggars’ forceful tactics sometimes create a nuisance for citizens who feel attacked by their offensive behaviour,” said Imran, an office-bearer of the local traders’ association.

“The interruptions by beggars become unbearable while shopping in the market,” said Raheel while shopping at a market.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 20^th, 2020.