September 26, 2008	Friday	Ramazan 25, 1429

RAWALPINDI, Sep 25: A number of private schools in Rawalpindi have announced Eid holidays ahead of their usual schedule in view of the prevailing security situation which has created a sense of insecurity not only among students and their parents but also the institutions’ managements.

Leading private schools in Rawalpindi suspended their operation on Thursday and announced that schools will reopen during the first week of October after Eid holidays. The decision to close schools earlier than the holidays announced by the government was taken on Wednesday, it has been learnt.

The boosted security at the ‘Benazir Bhutto International Airport on Thursday became a cause of concern for many at homes, offices, shopping malls and bazaars. The ‘Red Alert’ at the Islamabad airport panicked the public and affected normal routine. Due to security situation particularly after the truck bombing of Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, Eid shopping has not picked up pace.

Enthusiasm of Eid shopping at stores and malls in Saddar and other localities in the cantonment is not seen despite the fact that the Muslim festival is not very far. Bank Road in Saddar where parking used to be a big problem for shoppers is not full, if not deserted.

A similar situation can also be seen on Kashmir Road or Saddar Bazaar. The public has become more concerned about the security situation and is avoiding busy places.

There are no adequate security arrangements seen around shopping centres. Only traffic wardens are seen controlling traffic at the main intersections of Saddar while the patrolling of police is almost non-existent. Except for guarding important public buildings and offices, no extraordinary arrangements have been taken by the police for the safety and security of the people.