Panhandlers flood Pindi

RAWALPINDI:

Following the start of Ramazan, professional beggars from surrounding areas have flooded the garrison city.

Entire families have spread across streets, neighbourhoods, markets, plazas and especially outside Sehri and Iftar stalls.

Large numbers of child beggars, both boys and girls, can be seen outside shops and markets. Women and men are present in district courts, grocery shops and wholesale markets.

Police efforts to arrest beggars have reportedly failed to yield significant results. While police spokespersons announce daily arrests, markets and bazaars remain crowded with beggars.

A large number of men, women and children are seen begging outside mosques and imambargahs during prayer times. Beggars are also visible at transport terminals and wholesale markets, as well as within the district court premises.

Members of the transgender community are also seen begging in streets and markets as Eid approaches. With Eid drawing nearer, a further influx of beggars into the city is expected.

During Iftar hours, women and young girls are seen in large numbers at stalls selling Iftar items.

Beggars are now also present at Sehri purchase points during early morning hours.