The Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) continued their sit-in protest at Faizabad for the second consecutive day on Sunday, causing significant disruptions to traffic and daily life in Rawalpindi. The protest led to the closure of Murree Road from Shamsabad to Faizabad, forcing commuters to divert through Double Road to reach Islamabad. This diversion resulted in severe traffic congestion on Double Road and Sixth Road, prompting warnings on social media to avoid Murree Road for travel to Islamabad.
According to a senior district administration official, the TLP had initially applied for permission to conduct a rally on Murree Road, which was denied due to ongoing Muharram observances. Despite the refusal, the TLP proceeded with their rally and later transitioned into a sit-in at Faizabad. Efforts by the capital administration were underway to negotiate with TLP leaders to resolve the sit-in peacefully.
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Meanwhile, local traders expressed concerns over the impact of the sit-in on business, noting a significant decrease in customers visiting markets like Raja Bazaar and surrounding areas on Sunday. Sharjeel Mir, President of the Rawalpindi Traders Association, highlighted that traders were already grappling with financial challenges, including high electricity bills, and urged authorities to engage with protesters to swiftly end the protest.
At the sit-in, TLP speakers reiterated their demands, including the declaration of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a terrorist and the provision of humanitarian aid to Palestinians affected by violence in Gaza and other areas. They affirmed their intention to continue the protest until their demands were met.
