DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Office-bearers of the Peshawar Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries have accused the district administration of repeatedly violating agreements made with the business community and launching operations that have caused serious financial and reputational damage to traders.
In a joint statement issued by Chamber President Shakeel Ahmed Khan Saraf, Senior Vice President Haji Tala Muhammad, Vice President Zohaib Arif, and Executive Members Fazal Mola, Israr Lodhi, Rehmat Khan, Rafiullah, Sohail Akhtar, Abid Hussain, Ashfaq Khan, Shaukat Durrani, Sohail Karimi, Faheem Niazi, and Humayoun Israr, the Chamber expressed deep concern over ongoing anti-encroachment operations in various markets of Peshawar.
They said that five major markets were earlier announced to be developed as model markets in cooperation with the district administration.
However, instead of fulfilling that commitment, the administration allegedly launched forceful and indiscriminate operations that resulted in financial losses worth millions of rupees and subjected traders to harassment and humiliation.
“The administration’s broken promises and one-sided actions have created an atmosphere of fear and unrest among the trading community,” the statement said.
“Shops have been sealed, heavy fines imposed, and individuals imprisoned, all under the guise of anti-encroachment drives. This is not justice.”
The Chamber leaders recalled that Peshawar’s traders have always stood by the administration during times of crisis, including the fight against terrorism, the COVID-19 pandemic, and religious events such as Muharram-ul-Haram.
Despite their sacrifices, they said, the district authorities continue to act unilaterally and without proper consultation.
They clarified that the business community did not support illegal encroachments but strongly objected to the method adopted by the administration.
“The agreed-upon model markets should be completed first. Only then should any new operations be considered, and that too in consultation with traders and relevant officials,” the statement said.
Shakeel Ahmed Khan Saraf emphasized that the ongoing tensions between the Peshawar Chamber and the district administration must be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding, adding that the Chamber remains ready for constructive engagement.
