Traders protest delayed Mall Road remodelling

Blame authorities for losses; demand urgent completion, underground electrification

MURREE:

Traders on Mall Road have staged a strong protest against the Walled City administration over the slow pace of the Mall Road remodelling project and the alleged use of substandard materials.

Despite more than a year having passed since the project began, it remains incomplete, causing heavy financial losses to traders. They said that although the contract worth over Rs500 million was awarded, negligence, poor-quality materials, and delays by the concerned Walled City authorities have created serious difficulties for the business community.

The traders further stated that the contract for underground electrification on Mall Road also falls under the Walled City administration, but despite the passage of a long time, the system has yet to be shifted underground. They complained that even light rain, snowfall, or strong winds lead to frequent power outages, resulting not only in business losses but also damage to expensive electronic equipment.

They warned that if the electricity system is not moved underground immediately, it could lead to loss of life and property, for which the Walled City administration would be held responsible.

The Murree business community has urged Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, the Rawalpindi Division Commissioner, the Murree Deputy Commissioner and other high officials to take immediate notice, initiate prompt action against those responsible, ensure timely completion of the project, and improve construction quality.