Key areas including Peshawar Road, Murree Road, and localities bordering Islamabad were among the worst affected. According to local reports, all commercial establishments -including milk shops, bakeries, tandoors, and grocery outlets - remained closed
Pic/AFP
Residents of Rawalpindi faced significant disruptions over the weekend as markets across the city remained shut following directives from the district administration. The closures were enforced due to heightened security arrangements linked to ongoing talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, reported IANS.
Key areas including Peshawar Road, Murree Road, and localities bordering Islamabad were among the worst affected. According to local reports, all commercial establishments — including milk shops, bakeries, tandoors, and grocery outlets — remained closed. Even the main grain market in Raja Bazaar did not operate during this period, reported IANS.
Traders Say Closure Ordered by Administration
Leaders of the local traders’ body confirmed that shopkeepers were instructed to keep their establishments shut on both Saturday and Sunday. The directive, they said, came directly from district authorities as part of precautionary measures during the high-profile diplomatic engagement, reported IANS.
Residents Struggle to Access Essentials
The shutdown led to widespread inconvenience for residents, who struggled to procure daily essentials such as milk, vegetables, and bread. Many were forced to search for basic food items in inner lanes and smaller outlets that remained partially accessible.
Some residents reported difficulties in preparing meals at home due to low gas pressure in several parts of the city, compounding the challenges created by the market closures. The unavailability of vegetables and staple items added to the hardship faced by families, reported IANS.
Transport Shortage Adds to Public Distress
Commuters also faced problems due to a shortage of public transport on the roads. With fewer vehicles operating, taxi and rickshaw drivers reportedly charged higher fares, taking advantage of the situation. Passengers complained of inflated pricing and limited availability of transport options, reported IANS.
Talks Fail to Yield Agreement, US Signals Tough Stand
The market shutdown coincided with prolonged negotiations between the United States and Iran, which ultimately failed to produce an agreement. US Vice President J. D. Vance stated that despite more than 20 hours of discussions, both sides could not reach a consensus, reported IANS.
He indicated that while there were substantive exchanges, Iran did not agree to the terms proposed by the US. Vance reiterated that Washington’s primary objective remains preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons capability and securing long-term assurances on the issue, reported IANS.
Situation Highlights Civilian Impact of Security Measures
While authorities imposed restrictions citing security concerns, the situation in Rawalpindi underscores the broader impact such measures can have on everyday life. With essential services disrupted and mobility restricted, residents bore the brunt of the precautionary shutdown, reported IANS.
The developments reflect how geopolitical events and security considerations can directly affect civilian life, particularly in densely populated urban centres like Rawalpindi.
(With inputs from IANS)
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