Addicts take over key underpass

IJP Road project has become symbol of administrative neglect and civic failure

RAWALPINDI:

The underground pedestrian passage on IJP Road, a key artery linking Rawalpindi and Islamabad, has deteriorated into a state of extreme disrepair due to administrative negligence, failure to determine jurisdiction, and prolonged inattention. Built to ensure safe pedestrian movement, the passage has now become a permanent shelter for drug addicts, making it not only difficult but dangerous for citizens to use.

Neither the Rawalpindi administration nor the Islamabad Capital Territory administration is willing to take responsibility for the facility, with both refusing to acknowledge it as part of their jurisdiction. This administrative tug-of-war has left the passage completely abandoned.

The underpass is plagued by a foul stench, heaps of garbage and debris, broken flooring, poor drainage, and a complete lack of lighting. The presence of drug users has further heightened security concerns, especially during night hours.

Dozens of children from areas including F Block, Danna Hardo, and surrounding localities use this underground passage daily to reach various educational institutions in Islamabad. Parents say they are forced to send their children through this unsafe and frightening route due to the absence of any alternative safe crossing, raising serious questions about the performance of the concerned authorities.

The passage also leads toward the ancient Shah Kaf graveyard near Islamabad's I-9 sewage treatment plant, and funeral processions frequently pass through it. Residents say forcing mourners and funeral processions to pass through this dark, filthy, and inhumane environment is distressing and violates human dignity and social values.

Religious and community leaders — including Khateeb of the ancient Jamia Masjid Hanfia Chishtia Danna, Hafiz Qari Matiur Rehman, Qazi Masoodul Hassan, Qazi Saeedul Hassan, and Qazi Misbahur Rehman — have demanded immediate reconstruction, full rehabilitation, repairs, thorough cleaning, proper lighting, improved drainage, and permanent security arrangements for the passage.