Minister along with District Nazim Raja Javed Akhlas, Advisor to Chief Minister Rahat Qadoosi, Nazims and councillors from different union councils marched in markets including Moti Bazar, Raja Bazar, Mochi Bazar, Sabzi Mandi, Bazar Talwadan, Urdu Bazar and Purana Qila. People have shown a good response to the move and donated money whole-heartedly.
Talking to reporters on the occasion Sh. Rashid said that in response to President Musharraf's appeal to nation for donation, he has launched a move to collect donation by moving in the markets, which he named "Jholi March".
People should come forward whole-heartedly to donate money for rehabilitation and reconstruction of quake victims and affected areas, minister said adding that it is a crucial time for whole nation and government is committed to use all out efforts and resources for the rehabilitation of the quake hit people of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Hazara division of NWFP.
"We are proud to be Pindiites and Rawalpindi has always responded positively to any call from the nation and opened their hearts along with their pockets", he said adding that at this crucial hours Rawalpindi prove a hub for the relief and rehabilitation activities and affected people were given affectionate response by Pindiites.
Sh. Rashid rejected the criticism of the opposition parties and said that opposition should come for relief and rescue of the affected people in spite of indulging in mud slinging. "Opposition should behave positively which would help enhance the pace relief and rehabilitation operation", he added.
The minister expressed complete satisfaction over the pace of relief operation and said that nation and international community has responded quickly, which helped in rescue of huge population in affected areas. "We need more money and hopefully international community and expatriates would come forward to help government in reconstruction of the affected areas", he added.