December 15, 2006	Friday	Ziqa'ad 23, 1427

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FAISALABAD, Dec 14: The historic Iqbal Park (Dhobi Ghat ground) - venue of historic political gatherings, is filled with addicts and anti-social elements throughout the day. After the emergence of Faisalabad as a district, a large brick kiln was constructed in this ground, which was later converted into a park.

The ground is considered the place where the Pakistan People’s Party had revived its activities and launched a struggle against Gen Ziaul Haq. Benazir Bhutto (the PPP chairperson) had been accorded a warm welcome at this ground in 1986. Nawaz Sharif, the PML-N chief and former prime minister, twice addressed public meetings here.

The ground is located in the heart of the city where thousands of people could be accommodated. When any political party wants the support of the people, it chooses this place. The ruling as well as the opposition parties have held many political meetings here.

It was observed that a number of young addicts were roaming around the park busy in injecting each other. Some days ago, a young boy was found dead in this ground.

Assembly members are well aware of the deteriorated condition of this park. The Gulberg police, responsible for curbing crime of this ground, are reluctant to remove the addicts from here.

The area people expressed anger over the movement of such people in the premises of this park. There is no check on addicts and other dubious elements who use this ground.

It was learnt that the iron pipes of the historic stage in this ground had been damaged and sold by some unscrupulous elements. The back gate entrance has been converted into a filth depot and people dispose of garbage there with impunity.

A female teacher, who has to pick her way through this park every day, said in such an environment not only the new generation but also the old people were insecure, playing the role of a silent spectator. She said that the authorities were well aware of the problem.

Ashiq Ali, who is in his 70s, complained that iron rods of park’s fence have been taken away by unknown people. The police have taken no action.

The Gulberg police station SHO said police had registered 35 cases against addicts but the menace could only be removed if the NGOs played their due role.