SARGODHA: The residents of Sargodha showed extraordinary interest in the PHA Lok Mela, but due to mismanagement, families faced unnecessary hooliganism from the youth.

Even though it was decided that only families would be allowed into the events, Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) officials permitted boys who reportedly caused problems for the families.

This correspondent observed that despite foreign tourists continuing to enjoy the fair, unwanted elements pestered the families.

Lawyer Muhammad Amir and trader Muhammad Naseem appealed to the commissioner to take notice of the mismanagement by PHA officials who allowed certain troublemakers, disguised as administrators, to harass females.

PHA officials stated that an unprecedented rush and non-cooperation from female visitors created some problems but were resolved. They denied charges of baton-charging females. An official said that renowned artists were engaged for performances, attracting a large number of visitors. Incidents like these sometimes occurred due to the non-cooperation of some families.

Published in Dawn, December 11th, 2023