RAWALPINDI: There was no panic and residents of the garrison city carried on with their daily routines despite reports that armed forces had neutralised multiple Indian drones.

While tensions between arch rivals Pakistan and India persisted, offices, markets and schools were opened in the city on Thursday.

A large number of people even reached the sites to see the wreckage of the drones after being shot down. Residents said they were not afraid of India as it had no capacity to face Pakistan’s armed forces.

Though PSL matches were cancelled in Rawalpindi, heavy traffic was witnessed on roads as usual. On the other hand, there were reports that some shopkeepers had been involved in overcharging with no checking by price magistrates.

However, Rawalpindi Traders Association President Shahid Ghafoor Paracha said overcharging would not be tolerated.

He said there was enough stock of essential items in the markets and the supply of goods was also normal. Moreover, there was no panic buying. He said retailers had been asked to facilitate citizens and cooperate with the government in the current situation.

Mr Paracha said traders would take action against shopkeepers involved in overcharging.

Published in Dawn, May 9th, 2025