RAWALPINDI:
The Pakistan-Australia cricket matches at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium have become a major nuisance for residents as extensive security arrangements have resulted in the sealing off of key public spaces, roads and commercial areas, drawing strong public backlash.
The city’s historic and biggest recreational place, Allama Iqbal Park, has been completely sealed for all three days of Eid. Similarly, Double Road, its adjoining markets and the main food market – which includes around 45 hotels and barbecue joints – have also been shut down, leaving residents unable to enjoy Eid outings or dining activities.
More than 200 shops and offices in the Shamsabad-Double Road commercial hub have been closed, 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 agricultural office to the stadium.
Traffic disruptions have severely affected daily movement, with major routes blocked and commuters forced to take alternative detours of up to three kilometres. Even Metro Bus access points in the area have reportedly been affected.
Citizens, traders and community representatives have strongly protested the situation and demanded that such restrictions not be imposed during major events. Residents including Ghori Khan, Shams Pervez and Fida Hussain said it was unacceptable to turn routine security measures into widespread closures and called for the matches to be moved elsewhere.
