Traffic congestion persisted on Monday as Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) continued its sit-in on Murree Road at Liaquat Bagh, now in its 10th consecutive day.
The prolonged protest significantly disrupted travel, causing severe delays for commuters between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Government and private employees traveling to Islamabad encountered difficulties using Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed Road and the old Airport Road, which have become heavily congested due to traffic diversions from the Liaquat Bagh closure.
Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed Road, already overloaded with heavy vehicles delivering goods to Rawalpindi bazaars, has been particularly problematic for drivers.
Rizwan Butt, a resident of Iqbal Road, criticized the government for its failure to manage the traffic situation, stating that the road closure at Liaquat Bagh has made it challenging for office workers to reach Saddar. He also pointed out the inadequate planning of alternative routes by the traffic police, despite significant government investment in the traffic system. The reopening of private schools for summer camps has further increased traffic volumes in the afternoons, while government schools remain closed.
During the protest, JI activists at Liaquat Bagh held a public meeting in the evening to observe Kashmir Exploitation Day, as announced by JI Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman.
The JI Emir criticized the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers, suggesting they should use smaller 1300cc cars due to the financial burden on taxpayers caused by the ruling elite’s luxury lifestyles. He accused the government of imposing taxes on the salaried class while neglecting to widen the tax base to include those who do not currently pay taxes. He also reiterated his demand for the disclosure of agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), calling them flawed and costly to the national treasury. Additionally, he urged the government to abolish taxes on flour, sugar, and stationery to provide relief to the public.
