Murree Traders Announce Shutter-Down Strike Against Smart Lockdown Restrictions

Traders and business owners in Murree have strongly opposed the government’s “smart lockdown” measures, demanding an exemption for the popular tourist destination.

The Anjuman-e-Tajiran (Traders Association) has announced a complete shutter-down strike, stating that all markets and business centers will remain closed starting Monday morning until their demands are accepted.

The association declared:

“Murree is a tourist destination; therefore, there is no need for a smart lockdown here,”

adding that the protest will continue until authorities withdraw the restrictions.

The Transport Association has also expressed full support for the strike, further intensifying the protest movement in the region.

Earlier, the Punjab government decided to continue implementing its smart lockdown policy in Lahore and other areas as part of broader austerity and energy-saving measures. Authorities emphasized targeted restrictions instead of full shutdowns to balance economic activity and public safety.

District administrations have been instructed to strictly enforce SOPs while ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted. The government maintains that the policy is aimed at reducing energy consumption and managing rising economic pressures without completely halting daily life.

However, traders in Murree argue that such restrictions negatively impact tourism and local business activity, leading to widespread disruption in the region’s economy.