LAHORE: The metropolitan city witnessed a series of enthusiastic Independence Day celebrations marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies and tree plantation initiatives, reflecting the nation’s commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future.

Various government institutions and organisations joined hands to celebrate Independence Day with zeal and national fervour, focusing on themes of progress, unity, and environmental conservation.

The Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) marked the occasion with a grand flag-hoisting ceremony at Wapda House in Lahore.

Wapda Member (Finance) Naveed Asghar Chaudhry and Member (Power) Jamil Akhtar led the ceremony, followed by a rendition of the national anthem by students from Wapda Girls Higher Secondary School, Chashma.

The building was adorned with a massive 100x40-foot national flag and illuminated to celebrate the day. A tree plantation drive was also part of the event, reinforcing Wapda’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

The National Transmission and Despatch Company Limited (NTDC) celebrated the day with fervour at its grid stations across the country.

In Lahore, a flag-hoisting ceremony at the TSG Training Centre featured the participation of Deputy Managing Director (AD&M) Engr Rasheed A Bhutto, who paid tribute to the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom.

The ceremony also included a march-past by NTDC’s Security Directorate and concluded with a tree-planting activity, led by the chief guest.

Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) held a flag-hoisting ceremony at its Lahore head office, where Managing Director Amer Tufail emphasised the importance of unity for national progress.

Following the ceremony, Mr Tufail planted a sapling as part of SNGPL’s ongoing efforts to contribute to a greener Pakistan.

Nespak celebrated the day with a ceremony at Nespak House in Lahore, where Managing Director Zargham Eshaq Khan announced a record-breaking business acquisition in 2024, amounting to over Rs23 billion.

He attributed this success to the hard work of the dedicated team and promised to translate these achievements into tangible benefits for staff.

The event also included a tree-planting activity, symbolising Nespak’s dedication to a sustainable future.

The Lahore Waste Management Company launched an extensive cleanliness operation in preparation for the Independence Day celebrations.

It also decorated its head office with green flags and balloons, and its operational vehicles were adorned with the national flag.

The Pakistan Railways divisional superintendent office in Lahore celebrated the day with a patriotic flag-hoisting ceremony, led by Railways DS Muhammad Hanif Gul.

Railway Police presented a guard of honour, and children from railway schools performed national songs and delivered speeches. The ceremony also included tree planting, part of the ongoing efforts to promote environmental conservation.

The Ravi Urban Development Authority held a simple yet impressive Independence Day ceremony at its headquarters and launched a heartwarming documentary titled “Azadi Ka Dariya,” celebrating the spirit of freedom.

The working class also observed Independence Day with zeal and fervour.

The All Pakistan Federation of Trade Union (APFTU) held a flag-hoisting ceremony at Bakhtiar Labour Hall which was presided over by Federation Secretary General Khurshid Ahmad.

In a resolution, the federation demanded the government take measures to ease the sufferings of the nation and check price hikes, rising unemployment and high prices of electricity.

Alhamra

Alhamra Arts Council illuminated Pakistan’s Independence Day with grand celebrations at the Alhamra Mall Complex, showcasing patriotism and unity.

The day was filled with pride and reflection as people from all walks of life gathered to honour the spirit of freedom.

The festivities commenced with a solemn and uplifting flag-hoisting ceremony, attracting a large crowd united under the national flag.

Children and adults alike took memorable photographs beside the statues of the Quaid-i-Azam and Allama Iqbal. The Independence Day walk, accompanied by a stirring performance of patriotic songs by a live band, set the tone for a day imbued with national pride and unity.

An art exhibition was also unveiled, featuring powerful portraits of national leaders and evocative artworks depicting the struggle for independence.

Inaugurated by Chairman Razi Ahmed, the exhibition served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom. The event further recognised the talents of young artists, with awards presented to the winners of a painting competition, celebrating their creative brilliance.

Mr Ahmed reflected on the transformative power of art in shaping national identity.

He stated, “As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we are reminded of the profound role the arts play in preserving our heritage and inspiring us to reach new heights. Alhamra Arts Council proudly stands as a beacon for our nation’s diverse and gifted artists, who continually push the boundaries of creativity.

Today, let us remember that the arts uniquely unite us, uplift our spirits, and fortify the fabric of our community. May we continue to cherish and support this vital force in our society. Happy Independence Day to everyone!“

Ahmed also urged the community to contribute to the nation’s greenery with the theme “Ek Bashar, Ek Shajar” (One Person, One Tree), symbolising the shared responsibility to nurture the land that sustains us.

Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2024