Qasim Jamshed

Islamabad: Extortionists and hawkers remain unchecked, and the traffic issue persists as it is. Citizens have appealed to the IG Islamabad to take action against the extortionists and hawkers at 26 Number Chungi, Motorway Chowk, and the Motorway Loop. It has been alleged that these extortionists and hawkers provide monthly bribes to local police stations.

Revelations have surfaced about the 26 Number Chungi Mardan and Peshawar stands where touts are used to deliver bribes to the police stations. Last night, the efforts of the Motorway Police were trampled upon by these extortionists and hawkers. The traffic jam issue continues unabated at 26 Number Chungi, Motorway Chowk, and the Motorway Loop, where extortionists and hawkers have taken over. Public distress has increased due to the unruly behavior of rickshaw drivers, as vehicles have to stop directly on GT Road instead of designated stops, leading to hours-long traffic jams becoming a routine matter.

Traffic police officers deployed on duty appear as silent spectators in front of these extortionists and hawkers. Business leaders have demanded the administration and IG Islamabad take immediate notice.

According to details, GT Road is one of the busiest highways in Islamabad. Extortionists and hawkers have occupied stops at 26 Number Chungi, creating unauthorized terminals, which have made hours-long traffic jams a regular occurrence. Business leaders at 26 Number Chungi and Motorway Chowk are also deeply troubled.

They have reported that extortionists and hawkers have taken over the stops and service roads. With complete protection from local police and patrol vehicles, the confidence of these extortionists and hawkers has grown. Unless they are reined in, the problem will persist.