PESHAWAR, May 28: The University Town residents, including members of the Ladies Club, have complained about construction of a wall in the town’s only public park.

Humaira Gilani, a member of the Ladies Club, told a news conference here that a wall was being constructed between the walking track and squash/tennis courts inside the park after a protest by the town residents against the establishment of restaurants on the premises.

She said the administration had justified the construction saying it was being carried out to protect privacy and security of visitors.

Ms Humaira, however, claimed security and privacy had never been an issue until recently when a woman was insulted and threaten by the people, who recently took over the place on lease against the law.

“Construction of the wall is an illegal activity so work on it should be stopped without delay,” she said.

She said she had already moved the court on the matter and expected relief from it.

Ms Humaira alleged that an influential political family was behind the award of the ‘illegal’ lease of the park’s land for setting up restaurants. She asked: “If the Bilour family has no role in the lease of the agreement or constructions of the restaurant at the premises.

If so, why are Mansoor Tariq, a nephew of Bilour, and Haroor Bilour, son of Bashir Bilour, are always present on the premises, and taking active interest in the affairs of the club? How can they further sublet it to, to the owner of the coffee pot? Do they hold any position in the town administration?”—Bureau