In a shocking turn, several roads in Lahore roads closed because of escalating protests by PTI Supporters. These political protests have led to disruptions on the roads adding strain to daily life in one of Pakistan’s most dynamic cities.
Mall roads and Canal roads were closed with serious police presence and reinforcement to manage any disturbance). Many people had very long rides because other roads were also filled to the brim Now that traffic had been rerouted, commuters found themselves stuck in traffic. Stores and schools were closed in business where the violence took place and several people demanded that something be done about it.
These protests have come against the backdrop of political changes and PTI has called for an ‘immediate resolution’ to what they consider their grievances. Protesters took the wrapping with the national trappings and inscriptions, chanting voices of what they deem urgent problems to the democracy of the United States. However, this has brought about some commotion with some citizens supporting the protest while others condemn the inconveniences that have affected most normal citizens.
Leaders of the city appealed to residents to exercise patience and refrain from venturing out stating that measures were being taken to ensure minimal interferences. Nonetheless, the large numbers of protesters and the strategic nature of the roads closed to traffic have prompted worries about their effects on Lahore’s business and services.
Pakistan has a city called Lahore which is well known for its diverse cultural idiom which also flourishes in its busy trade; however, it has recently experienced some difficulties with the questions of political freedom and its citizen’s utility. The ongoing situation further postulates the socio-political dynamics of urban politics in the context of urban Pakistan especially when there are increased political activities.
It brings in its wake other similar incidents that have occurred in Karachi and other cities where governance often comes with the effect of political disturbance to social activities and routines. While arguments on the relevance of protest approaches in the current society as against their impact comes up constantly the fact remains that cities such as Lahore are right at the heart of this debate.
What do you make of the ways that political activist movements affect life within cities and urban systems of governing?
