Faisalabad Focus: Cricket Security Issues Frustrate Locals

By Saleem Mubarak

As international cricket returns to Faisalabad after 17 years, excitement in the district has turned into frustration for many locals due to ‘strict security’ measures.

Locals say the Faisalabad cricket security issues have turned a moment of pride into days of inconvenience.

Fans Frustrated Over Parking and Stadium Access

A cricket lover, Ahmad Ali, talking to the Grand Lines said he had been eagerly waiting to watch the matches live in the Iqbal Stadium. However, the arrangements made by the administration have dampened his enthusiasm.

“I was thrilled that international cricket is back, and I wanted to attend all three games. But my excitement faded when I learned that fans would have to park their vehicles about two kilometers away and walk to the stadium.”

He said that the government should have made better arrangements so people could enjoy the series.

“Globally, people enjoy sports events; however, we do the opposite and make public life miserable in the name of security,” he added.

Faisalabad’s Jail Road, which leads to the major Allied Hospital, has been closed for cricket match security

Residents Complain About Road Closures and Daily Disruptions

Zara Bibi, traveling with her family on Jail Road to visit relatives, said she faced serious inconvenience when police stopped them from using the road, which had been sealed for the security of the Pakistan and South Africa cricket teams.

“It’s good that international cricket has returned to Faisalabad, but it’s unfair to disrupt the lives of thousands just for a few matches,” she said.

She pointed out that Jail Road leads directly to Faisalabad’s largest medical facility, Allied Hospital. “If the road is closed, how will emergency patients reach the hospital? People might lose their lives on the way,” she warned, urging the government to review its security plan.

Also Read: Cricket Returns to Faisalabad: City of Looms and Lassi Celebrates

“Once the teams reach the stadium, only nearby roads should be closed — not the entire city, God forbid, as if we’re at war.”

She added that the matches between Pakistan and South Africa, scheduled from November 4 to 8, are a proud moment for Faisalabad.

“We are happy to host international teams, but this hospitality should not turn into punishment for the residents,” she said.

Travelers Face Delays at Airport and Major Roads

Hamid Mahmood shared a similar experience. His relatives had returned after performing Umrah and had landed at Faisalabad Airport on Sunday, but their car was not allowed to use Jhang Road.

“They were told no one could travel until the cricket teams reached the stadium,” he said.

He criticized the lack of public communication about road closures. “The government should have used mainstream media and social media efficiently to inform people which roads would remain open,” he said.

“We are proud to welcome the South African team, but the current security setup feels outdated — as if we’re living in the Stone Age.”

Recalling the past, he said such lockdowns were understandable during the Musharraf era due to terrorist threats. “But now Punjab is peaceful. Shutting down the whole city makes no sense,” he added.

“Authorities must reconsider these security measures and avoid making daily life miserable for citizens who rely on these main roads for work, school, and hospital visits,” he said.

Police Justify Strict Security Measures

A police officer of Faisalabad, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Grand Lines that the security personnel had been deployed as directed by the higher authorities, which had issued instructions for the entire security plan. “We are simply following the orders given to us,” he said.

“We know that ordinary citizens are facing difficulties, as our own families and children are among those affected,” he added.

“This situation is inconvenient for everyone,” he said. “But keeping national interests in mind, we must tolerate these hardships for a few days to ensure the successful revival of sports in Pakistan.”

Hope for Balance Between Safety and Public Ease

The officer expressed hope that once other countries see Pakistan as peaceful and secure, they will be more willing to visit.

“I agree that main roads should ideally remain open,” he admitted.

“But under current circumstances, security requires us to close them. We want to show our guests that Pakistan values and protects its visitors.”

He advised the public to be patient. “Let’s endure these few days for the sake of the country, just as we endure personal hardships without complaint,” he said.

“We have no desire to cause inconvenience to anyone, but the situation demands strict security measures,” the officer claimed.

Author Profile

Saleem Mubarak: Saleem Mubarak is an investigative journalist, passionate writer, and keen observer of everyday life. His work combines humor, realism, and social insight to bring everyday stories to life with depth and clarity.

With a distinctive storytelling style, he brings ordinary moments to life through sharp wit and thoughtful commentary.

His writing often explores cultural trends, civic issues, and human behavior, engaging readers with both intellect and emotion.

Whether tackling serious topics or adding a touch of satire, Saleem’s words reflect his deep understanding of society and his commitment to meaningful expression.