Normalcy yet to return in Pindi

RAWALPINDI:

Business and social life started coming to normal in Rawalpindi as roads reopened after authorities removed barriers that had been set up at over 30 locations in response to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest at D-Chowk in Islamabad.

While the reopening has relieved commuters, significant disruptions remain, particularly concerning the metro bus service and routes connecting the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The situation began to unfold on Thursday night when the government, anticipating protests called by PTI, implemented security measures by deploying containers to block access to critical routes. This resulted in widespread closures that affected daily commutes and business activities across the region.

The barricades effectively halted movement between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, prompting frustration among residents and commuters.

As of Sunday, however, authorities announced the removal of obstacles from various key locations, allowing roads in Rawalpindi to reopen for general traffic. Notable areas where barriers were cleared include Stadium Road, Double Road, 6th Road Chowk, and Chandni Chowk.

These reopenings are expected to ease some congestion and restore normalcy, at least to a degree, for residents who rely on these routes.

Despite the positive developments regarding road access, the metro bus service—an essential mode of transport for many—remains shut down for the third consecutive day.

The metro typically accommodates around 125,000 passengers daily, and its closure has led to considerable hardships for commuters who now have to seek alternative transportation. Routes connecting Rawalpindi to Islamabad, including Faizabad, IJP, and Pandora Chowk, continue to be blocked, with containers and obstacles still in place.

Many commercial establishments remain closed, and the level of business activity in the area is significantly low. Although some shops have resumed operations, the overall atmosphere in Rawalpindi is subdued, with reduced foot traffic and minimal economic activity.

Authorities have made efforts to restore mobile phone and data services, which were disrupted during the protest-related closures.

This reinstatement has provided some relief to citizens who rely on these services for communication and coordination, particularly amid ongoing transportation challenges.

The police presence remains significant in the area, ensuring that the situation is monitored closely.

Containers have been strategically placed at several key junctions where they continue to restrict traffic flow.

Only a single-vehicle lane is permitted to pass through these heavily monitored areas, contributing to the continued delays and frustrations for commuters.

Barriers on the routes from Murree Road to the Red Zone Mall Road at the Metro Bus Station on Saddar and Haider Road were in place until the evening. They were subsequently removed, allowing the route to reopen to general traffic.