Disabled Vendor’s Stall Demolished in Jhang, Locals Demand Action

FAISALABAD, Sept 4: A disabled vendor in Mehr Iqbal Market on Jhang Road alleged that his stall was forcibly removed by Para Force, depriving his family of their only source of livelihood.

The vendor, identified as Abid, said his stall did not constitute an encroachment yet was demolished during an anti-encroachment operation. He accused Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz of failing to protect vulnerable families, noting that her promises of employment contrasted with the loss of income he now faces.

Amid ongoing floods across Punjab that have already displaced thousands, the incident has drawn widespread condemnation from local residents. Community members demanded immediate action from the provincial government to restore the stall and provide relief to the vendor’s family.

Earlier

Punjab authorities have recently intensified anti-encroachment drives across several districts, targeting illegal structures on roadsides and public property. While officials argue such measures are necessary to improve traffic flow and public safety, rights groups have raised concerns over the lack of alternative arrangements for displaced vendors, particularly those from marginalized communities.