Islamabad lockdown hurting businesses, govt must act: IIA president Omais Khattak

ISLAMABAD: President of the Islamabad Industrial Association, Omais Khattak, has urged the government to address a “lockdown-like” situation in the capital, warning that prolonged restrictions are severely affecting business activity and industrial production.

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Speaking to a delegation of traders, Khattak said the current conditions in Islamabad are disrupting routine economic operations, adding that immediate policy measures are needed to ease pressure on the business community.

He said resolving key issues related to security, infrastructure, and electricity remains a top priority for the association. Khattak noted that many industrial concerns are linked to civic management challenges involving the Capital Development Authority, and that efforts are underway to develop a coordinated strategy to address them.

“We understand the government’s compulsions, but business continuity is essential,” he said, warning that continued disruption could directly impact production levels.

Call for coordinated policy response

Khattak urged authorities to engage with trade bodies to develop a workable plan that balances security needs with economic activity. He said the association would work closely with institutions including the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry to resolve issues facing traders and industrialists.

He also highlighted the need for expansion of industrial zones, stressing that timely provision of land is critical to support growth in Islamabad’s industrial sector.

Delegation visit

Earlier, a delegation led by Zafar Bakhtawari visited the I-9 industrial area and met newly elected office-bearers of the association. The delegation congratulated Khattak and his team, including Senior Vice President Aamir Hussain and Vice President Mian Arif Hussain.

The meeting was attended by representatives from various trader bodies and business groups, who discussed challenges facing the business community and potential solutions.