LAHORE: Because of protest call by Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) and its political allies on Wednesday, a loss of Rs15 billion was incurred by traders, said the All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran (APAT).
APAT President, Khalid Pervez said the forced closure of shops and commercial markets by the city district administration on the Mall had caused major losses to the trading community, reported Business Recorder.
And Secretary General, Naeem Mir APAT voiced his regret at the decision of the Lahore High Court (LHC) to permit the parties to stage a protest on Charing Cross on 17th January. He added in 2011 the court in another decision had banned protest rallies and on public meetings from being held on Mall Road.
Furthermore, Mir said justice was not being imparted to them and these rallies were destroying their businesses and depriving them of their livelihood. Leading shopping centres like Panorama, Sadiq Plaza, Hall Road, currency market and other significant commercial locations remained closed alongside twelve banks for public dealings which caused immense public distress.
