Islamabad:Eid days were official over on Thursday but both locals and non-locals took to the streets in cars and on motorcycles to revel in celebrations.
Youngsters exhibited their excitement by honking horns, removing silencers from their motorcycles before racing on the roads, and blasting music in cars. Several motorcyclists did a wheelie, a dangerous stunt that involves lifting the front wheel off the ground while riding.
These stunts, though thrilling for the riders, posed a significant risk to both performers and other road users. Besides these reckless acts, there were also numerous complaints of eve-teasing, with women facing harassment in the form of verbal taunts and inappropriate gestures.
Also, celebratory gunfire was reported in several areas, terrifying people who feared stray bullets could cause harm or even fatalities. Major roads in F-10, F-6, F-7 and F-8, Murree Road, Park Road, Faisal Avenue, Jinnah Avenue, 9th Avenue and Margalla Road were heavily congested with private vehicles as people ventured out in large numbers to celebrate Eid.
The overwhelming traffic led to prolonged gridlocks, making it difficult for emergency vehicles and law enforcement to navigate. With roads choked with vehicles, traffic police were deployed at key intersections to regulate the flow of cars and motorcycles.
Officers worked tirelessly to manage the situation and ensure that congestion did not escalate further. At the same time, additional police patrols were conducted across the city to deter any potential disturbances and maintain law and order.
As part of the festivities, some revellers took to rooftops to launch fireworks into the night sky. Despite the lively celebrations, no damage to public life or property was reported. However, many road users found themselves in heated arguments, either with those who were blocking their paths or with other motorists over minor collisions.
Residents strongly believed that the overwhelming crowds seen during the Eid celebrations were largely made up of non-locals who had travelled from Rawalpindi and other nearby towns and villages to join in the festivities.
They insisted that such an influx was common during major events as people from surrounding areas flocked to the capital, drawn by its well-maintained roads, scenic spots, modern shopping malls and vibrant nightlife.
Locals expressed frustration over traffic mess and the visitors' unruly behaviour on the streets like reckless driving, excessive honking and public disturbances. "These non-local revellers have no idea of Islamabad’s usual decorum, so they disrupt public order. We [residents] prefer staying indoors during Eid days for the sake of our own peace," local businessman Yasin Mujahid said. The residents called for better crowd regulation to prevent Eid celebrations from turning into chaos.