Eid shopping in full swing; traders demand removal of encroachment, increase security.

RAWALPINDI -- Sparkling illuminations around shopping centres, overcrowded roads and side lanes, and heavy rush in shopping areas were seen in the city as Eid shopping was underway in full swing.

Despite inflation, there was no decline in Eid shopping in the city like a heavy rush in major shopping centres was witnessed. Just drive or walk down to Saddar, Commercial market, Moti Bazaar, Chan Bazar, Purana Qilla, Kartar Pura, Benazir Bhutto Road and other areas. The shops were full of customers, primarily women and children, continuing until Sehri.

The city administration, with departments concerned and traffic police in collaboration with the shopkeepers association, have set up special complaint centres in major shopping areas in the city to register complaints about thefts or pick-pocketing.

During visits to various shopping areas of the city, an unusual rush of buyers was seen; Children's items were in excessive demand because of every family, whatever its financial position, prefers to purchase something for their young ones.

Traders Association President Sharjeel Mir said it was a trend in our society that people usually shop more during Ramzan for Eid-ul-Fitr. He added that the improved law and order situation has also reinforced shopping sprees this year.

However, he demanded that the Municipal Corporation Rawalpindi (MCR) launch a cohesive operation against encroachments that created hurdles in the smooth traffic flow.

President of Moti Bazaar Chaudary Muhammad Iqbal said that it had become more challenging to move on roads as Eid shopping has been picked up.

He said traders and commuters, especially women, were facing great difficulties during routine shopping, and it had doubled over on celebratory shopping.

Iqbal noted that wrong...