Chaos in Islamabad as Administration Imposes Sudden Lockdown
Residents of Islamabad were left scrambling for essentials as the administration unexpectedly sealed shops and detained shopkeepers to enforce a blanket lockdown. Despite previous assurances that businesses would not be affected during the Shanghai Cooperation Summit, the lockdown was implemented on the first day of the two-day event, leaving many in a state of confusion.
The decision, made hastily and without proper planning, resulted in residents facing difficulties in finding groceries and other necessities. Banks were closed, ATMs were out of order, and shops and restaurants were sealed off without warning. While some businesses remained partially open, the majority were shuttered, exacerbating the plight of residents.
The administration also deployed over 1,200 personnel at various checkpoints across the capital to enforce the lockdown, causing further disruption. The move was attributed to security concerns for the foreign delegates attending the summit, but the heavy-handed approach drew criticism for its lack of consideration for the residents.
Overall, the sudden lockdown in Islamabad created chaos and inconvenience for the city’s inhabitants, highlighting the need for better communication and planning in future decisions.
Published in Dawn, October 17th, 2024