Residents of Islamabad faced chaos and inconvenience as the administration abruptly imposed a blanket lockdown without prior notice, sealing shops and detaining shopkeepers. This unexpected move disrupted the daily lives of citizens, forcing many to scramble for essentials.
Contrary to assurances made just a week earlier, businesses and commercial centers were shut down during the Shanghai Cooperation Summit (SCO) summit. The hasty decision to close shops without proper planning caused confusion and hardship for residents.
Unprecedented security measures were cited as the reason for the sudden lockdown, aimed at ensuring the safety of 900 foreign delegates attending the summit after 27 years. With businesses closed, banks shut, and ATMs out of order, residents struggled to find groceries and basic necessities.
Despite the challenges, some shops and restaurants remained open with limited services. The capital police set up pickets across the city to restrict movement, adding to the overall inconvenience for the residents.
Ultimately, the enforcement of the lockdown disrupted daily life in Islamabad and caused frustration among the local population.
Published in Dawn, October 17th, 2024