RAWALPINDI: Assistant Commissioner Rawalpindi Cantonment has sealed an illegally established Model Bazaar, leading to strong resentment from shopkeepers and traders.
The market located in Nasirabad area on sealed on short notice of two days. Traders and shopkeepers have protested over the decision and said their livelihood has been snatched from them.
They claimed that they have been working for the past two decades at the market which is their only source of income. “We are working here since 20 years earning a living for our family. We have no other source of income except for these shops,” said a shopkeeper.
The Model Bazaar in Nasirabad was set up by former PML-N MNA Malik Ibrar and 52 stalls and kiosks were set up on public funds.
On the other hand, the Assistant Commissioner said they do not intend to harm anyone’s livelihood. He said two days ago the shopkeepers were asked to show documents of possession as evidence of ownership. He added that no one will be allowed to occupy public property illegally.
Sources revealed that influential land mafia has been occupying the Model Bazaar for several years and hands over the lands on hefty amounts. The shopkeepers, local residents and civil society activists have demanded that the illegal allotments of lands should be probed.
