Drug Addicts Start Stealing Signboards in Newly Developed Sectors of Islamabad

Drug addicts have started stealing street signboards in Islamabad’s newly developed Sector I-16, leaving residents and visitors without essential navigation aids. Interior Minister Senator Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi informed the National Assembly that most of the area’s signboards are either missing or severely damaged. In a written reply to a question from MNA Ramesh Lal, he attributed the thefts primarily to drug addicts targeting the unpopulated portions of the sector. The minister revealed that only 15 to 20 percent of I-16 is currently populated. The remaining undeveloped areas have become prone to vandalism and theft, creating security concerns and damaging public infrastructure. The absence of street signs, Naqvi admitted, has caused major inconvenience for residents, visitors, and emergency or delivery services. It is now difficult to identify streets or locate addresses in the area. The deteriorating condition of civic infrastructure in Sector I-16, he said, highlights the urgent need to better protect public assets in underdeveloped zones. Naqvi also confirmed that a cost estimate for installing new signboards is being prepared. Work will begin once formalities are completed and funds are made available.