Web Desk: Traders in Mardan expressed strong frustration as a political rally by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) disrupted commercial activity in the city, with shopkeepers reporting financial losses and operational difficulties.
Local business owners said the rally, held in a busy commercial area, led to road closures and restricted movement, forcing many shops to shut early or remain inaccessible to customers. As a result, traders faced reduced sales and logistical challenges throughout the day.
Several shopkeepers staged a protest, voicing anger against the provincial administration. They said authorities had failed to consider the impact of large political gatherings on daily business operations.
Meanwhile, political criticism also emerged from opposition figures. A representative of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Israrullah Khan, questioned the need for frequent rallies, arguing that residents are more concerned about public services than political demonstrations.
He said citizens want solutions to everyday problems rather than public gatherings, adding that the health and education sectors in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remain in poor condition and require urgent government attention.
Authorities have not yet issued an official response regarding the traders’ complaints or the disruption caused by the rally.
The situation reflects ongoing tensions between political activity and economic stability in urban centers across the province, where frequent rallies often intersect with commercial districts.
