Cricket security disrupts local life in Rawalpindi

Residents and traders protest closures around Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

RAWALPINDI:

Several areas in Rawalpindi have been closed down as part of the security measures taken for the Champions Trophy cricket matches being hosted at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The closures have specifically affected the Rawalpindi Food Street, Shamsabad Double Road and the local markets, as well as schools situated along the route to the stadium. Schools are to remain closed until February 27, and the road closures will continue to severely restrict and block access to important locations, like the oldest church in Pindi, which is located adjacent to Double Road. Strong protests have been staged by Christian pastors and community leaders in response.

To ensure maximum security, the routes leading to the cricket stadium have been completely sealed with barbed wires, tents and barricades. Snipers have been deployed on the rooftops of nearby areas and closed-circuit cameras have been installed to monitor the surroundings. Rawalpindi's largest recreational park, Allama Iqbal Park, has also been sealed off.

Moreover, the closure of the food market, shops and private offices in the area has also caused traders and citizens to protest vehemently, as their livelihoods and daily businesses are put under jeopardy.

The traders' association of Double Road, Shamsabad, has expressed deep concerns regarding the severe impact of the cricket matches on their livelihoods. They said that every time any matches are held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, their means of earning are snatched away, leaving them with significant financial losses. They described the week-long closure of shops and roads as an "economic massacre."

Shopkeepers Iqbal Khan, Fayaz Ali and Mahmood Khan pointed out that the current week is actually crucial for business as it is the last few days before Ramazan when citizens stock up on essential groceries for the upcoming holy month. They urged the authorities to relocate the cricket stadium to the Parade Ground.

A resident of Double Road, Amjad Ali Shah, stated that over the past three years, the cricket stadium has become a burden for residents. "While we previously welcomed matches as a boost to our businesses, we now hope that no matches are held or for heavy rain on match days so that matches are cancelled," he said.

Shah also remarked that the deployment of thousands of police and intelligence agency personnel incurs millions of rupees in costs. The area around the stadium turns into a curfew-like situation for local residents, shopkeepers and traders. He demanded that the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium be relocated. Moreover, he expressed his worry that following these closures and restrictions, the onset of Ramazan will further paralyse business as citizens will have already completed their grocery shopping at other markets.

Adding to the list of concerns, Pastor Qaiser and Christian leader Rashid Chauhan highlighted that the fasting period for the Christian community is also about to begin, and that they need daily access to the church.