RAWALPINDI:
Cricket matches between Pakistan and Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium have become a major inconvenience for residents as extensive security measures have resulted in the sealing of key public spaces, roads and commercial areas, sparking a strong public reaction.
The city’s historic and largest recreational spot, Allama Iqbal Park, has been completely sealed for the three days of Eid. Similarly, Double Road, its adjoining markets and the main food market, comprising around 45 hotels and barbecue outlets, have also been closed, preventing residents from enjoying Eid outings or food activities.
More than 200 shops and offices have been closed in the Shamsabad-Double Road shopping mall, while access to the nearby church has also been restricted, preventing members of the Christian community from attending Eid services. Authorities have placed the entire area under strict security cordons, with barbed wire and barricades installed from the Agriculture Office to the stadium.
Traffic disruptions have severely affected daily movement, blocking major routes and forcing commuters to take alternative detours of up to three kilometres. Even Metro Bus access points in the area would have been affected.
Citizens, merchants and community representatives have strongly protested the situation, demanding that such restrictions not be imposed during important events. Residents including Ghori Khan, Shams Pervez and Fida Hussain said turning routine security measures into widespread lockdowns is unacceptable and urged that parties move elsewhere.
