Repeated closures disrupt businesses, transport in Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: Repeated shutdowns of transport terminals, markets and commercial centres over the past seven days have severely disrupted business, social and transport activity in the city, according to traders and transporters.

The closures, followed by reopenings a few hours later, have left commercial activity in Rawalpindi under sustained uncertainty. Transport terminals and markets across the city have been closed suddenly on what was described as an emergency basis and then reopened after around five hours.

Traders, transporters, marriage hall owners and shopkeepers have said they are being forced to operate in an unpredictable environment created by the district administration and police. The repeated interruptions, they say, have pushed routine business activity close to a standstill.

Trader groups protest uncertainty

Trader organisations have protested against the pattern of closures, calling on the authorities to adopt a clear and consistent policy instead of shutting businesses multiple times a day and allowing them to reopen only a few hours later.

For the past week, authorities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad have been ordering abrupt closures in the afternoon or evening, citing the arrival of important guests. Markets, bazaars, wholesale centres and transport terminals have then been shut down by force.

Later, officials have denied the closures on social media, after which businesses have been allowed to reopen late at night. The shifting instructions have added to confusion among traders and transport operators already dealing with interrupted operations.

Losses reported by traders and transporters

Business representatives say the uncertainty has caused both financial damage and mental strain. Traders and transporters have said the repeated closures and delayed reopenings have led to serious losses, while also creating stress for those trying to keep businesses running.

The impact has also extended to the wedding business. Sudden closures of wedding halls and marquees have resulted in wedding events being cancelled, affecting both business owners and families.

The repeated opening and closure of key commercial and transport points in the city has paralysed normal activity. With markets and terminals being shut without warning and then reopened hours later, those dependent on daily trade and transport services say they are facing mounting disruption.

Trader bodies have reiterated their demand that the administration replace the current stop-start approach with a one-time, clearly communicated policy so that businesses can function without repeated interruptions.