RAWALPINDI: Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) supporters prolonged their sit-in at Faizabad into its third day on Monday, causing severe disruptions to daily life in Rawalpindi.
The protest led to the closure of Murree Road from Shamsabad to Faizabad, diverting traffic onto Double Road and Sixth Road, resulting in extensive traffic jams. Social media alerts advised commuters to avoid Murree Road for travel to Islamabad.
Authorities had initially denied TLP’s rally request citing Muharram sensitivities, yet the protest proceeded, escalating into a sit-in at Faizabad. Negotiations between TLP leaders and the Islamabad administration were ongoing to resolve the impasse.
Local traders expressed concern over reduced customers in markets like Raja Bazaar, attributing it to the sit-in. Rawalpindi Traders Association President Sharjeel Mir highlighted that businesses were already struggling due to financial challenges, exacerbated by decreased customer traffic during the protest.
While acknowledging the right to protest, Mir urged swift resolution through dialogue with the capital administration. Meanwhile, TLP speakers reiterated their demands at the sit-in, calling for international condemnation of Israeli actions and humanitarian aid for Palestinians affected by recent violence.
