Nationwide Shutdown in Pakistan to Express Solidarity with Gaza, Major Markets Closed

Report By Safarti Tarjuman Local Desk

In response to a call by Jamaat-e-Islami, a nationwide shutter-down strike is being observed across Pakistan today to show solidarity with the people of Gaza. Major business centers are closed, and streets are largely deserted in several cities.

Complete Shutdown Across Lahore

• Major markets, including Badami Bagh Auto Parts and all city car dealer hubs, remain closed.
• Key commercial areas such as Urdu Bazaar, Mall Road, Anarkali, and inner-city markets have suspended business activities.
• Shah Alam Market, Brandreth Road, Hall Road, the Ready-Made Garments Market, Solar Market, and the main Grain Market are also shut down.

Situation in Other Cities

• Peshawar: Shops in Qissa Khwani, Khyber Bazaar, Saddar, and Hashtnagri are closed.
• Rawalpindi: Raja Bazaar, Murree Road, Saddar, and Commercial Market are closed, with minimal traffic on the roads.
• Murree: Major areas including Mall Road, Cantt Market, Bhurban Market, Aliot, and Phagwari are witnessing a complete shutdown with limited transportation.
• Quetta and Balochistan: Markets in Quetta, Mastung, Kalat, Khuzdar, and Pishin are closed in support of Gaza.

Mixed Response in Karachi

• The All City Traders Alliance in Karachi has distanced itself from the strike, announcing that the Karachi Timber Market and other areas would remain open.
• Some Karachi traders have reportedly written to the Sindh Inspector General, alleging threats from strike organizers and requesting police protection.

Protests Affecting Traffic

• At Korangi Crossing Road, a sit-in protest has blocked traffic, with protesters burning tires.
• Traffic police have redirected vehicles towards Godam Chowrangi and Nasir Jump to ease congestion.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s Stand

• Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Chief, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, stated that the nationwide strike is a demonstration of Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with Gaza.
• He emphasized that the Pakistani nation rejects the genocide of Palestinians and will continue to stand by them.