Lahore’s Mall Road became a battleground of sorts once more when the supporters of the Grand Health Alliance sought to march on to the Chief Minister's House on Saturday.

It took a turn for the worse when police forces fired water cannons at protesters to scatter them, leading to an intense altercation between the two sides.

Even though police urged them to remain there, the health workers, who were shouting slogans, continued moving ahead. The standoff grew aggressive with incidents of pushing and shoving and verbal altercations.

The protest, ongoing for several days, is against the privatisation of healthcare centers. Protesters argue that privatization would lead to the economic downfall of thousands of families and deprive people in remote areas of essential medical services.

Demonstrators warned that they are prepared for a prolonged sit-in unless their demands are met. “We’re not afraid to sit here for months. This is about saving lives and livelihoods,” one protester said.

The sit-in at Charing Cross caused heavy traffic congestion in adjoining areas, leaving commuters frustrated and stuck in long jams.

The Grand Health Alliance is urging the government to initiate meaningful dialogue to resolve the issue peacefully and prevent further disruption in the healthcare system.