KOHALA (Kashmir English): The protest of the Tehreek-e-Haqq Circle Bakot entered its second day near Kohala Bridge on Sunday, resulting in a complete closure of the main highway connecting Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Rawalakot, Jhelum Valley, and Neelum Valley.
The blockade, which falls within the jurisdiction of KP’s Abbottabad district, has left thousands of commuters stranded for nearly 48 hours in severe cold.
According to reports, men, women, children, and the elderly spent the night inside their vehicles as temperatures neared freezing. Those trapped complained of having no access to food, warm clothes, or proper arrangements for rest.
Councilor Daniyal Muzaffar Khan from Jhelum Valley, who has been stuck along with his family since 10 pm last night, said the protesters showed “no humanitarian concern despite the life-threatening cold.”
Passengers criticized the ongoing protest, saying that people across the entire region have been taken hostage in the name of regional rights.
They also expressed frustration at what they described as the negligence of the Abbottabad district administration, which failed to open alternative routes or hold meaningful negotiations.
Commuters also voiced disappointment over the silence of KP Assembly members elected from the area, accusing them of ignoring the plight of the public.
With the situation worsening, stranded passengers have appealed to the GOC Murree to intervene urgently to restore traffic and bring relief to thousands affected by the highway closure.
