Islamabad residents urge end to protests

Cite severe disruptions to daily life, economic losses & educational setbacks.

ISLAMABAD:

Traders, transporters, and students in Islamabad are urgently calling for an end to the ongoing political protests, citing significant hardships, healthcare concerns and widespread disruptions.

In an exclusive interview with the state-run PTV News, Naeem Mir, a leader of the traders' community, expressed serious concerns over the impact of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) protests, stating that the demonstrations are crippling the capital's economy, which had been progressing under the leadership of Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N).

Mir highlighted the growing frustration among residents, as the protests continue to disrupt daily life and harm businesses. "Each day the situation worsens, and the disruption to daily routines is becoming unbearable," he said, calling for immediate intervention from authorities to restore normalcy.

The protests, which have been ongoing in Islamabad, are causing widespread inconvenience. Motorists, students, and traders alike are voicing their frustration. A motorist expressed concerns about the increasing tension, saying the protests are exacerbating the hardships faced by the people of the capital.

Traders have voiced their particular concerns, with many stating that their businesses are on the verge of collapse due to the roadblocks and disruptions caused by the protests. "We are on the verge of bankruptcy," said Muhammad Ali, a shop owner in Blue Area. "Our businesses are suffering, and we can't afford to pay our employees. We urge the protesters to find a peaceful solution."

Mobile sales in the area have reportedly dropped by 70% since the protests began, according to Umair, a mobile shop worker. "We are struggling to make ends meet. We appeal to the protesters to consider the impact on ordinary citizens," he added.