The ongoing political protests in Islamabad, primarily led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have sparked significant discontent among local traders, transporters, and students. Many are calling for an end to the disruptions that are severely affecting daily life and the economy of the capital.
In an interview with PTV News, Naeem Mir, a leader of the traders’ community, expressed deep concerns over the economic impact of the protests. He noted that businesses in Islamabad, which had been recovering under the leadership of the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N), are now facing extreme hardship due to the ongoing unrest. “Each day, the situation worsens, and the disruption to daily routines is becoming unbearable,” Mir said, urging authorities to intervene and restore normalcy.
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Motorists and students are equally frustrated by the daily roadblocks and increased tensions in the city. One motorist described the protests as escalating the challenges faced by residents, while students voiced their concerns about the disruption to their studies. Schools and universities are finding it difficult to maintain regular schedules, with many students unable to commute due to the blocked roads.
The hardest hit, however, seem to be local businesses. Muhammad Ali, a shop owner in Blue Area, lamented the impact on his business, stating, “We are on the verge of bankruptcy. Our businesses are suffering, and we can’t afford to pay our employees.” Ali, along with other traders, called for a peaceful resolution to the protests to prevent further economic damage.
According to Umair, a worker at a mobile shop, sales in the area have plummeted by 70% since the protests began, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. He urged the protesters to consider the broader impact their actions are having on ordinary citizens, who are finding it increasingly difficult to cope with the disruptions.
The protests have highlighted the broader challenges facing Islamabad, as its residents demand a balance between political expression and the need for economic stability and uninterrupted daily life.
