ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day was celebrated in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Wednesday with great fervour as various government and private organisations, institutions, and citizens came together to mark the momentous occasion.

From vibrant flag-hoisting ceremonies to mesmerising cultural performances and colourful events were organised by schools, colleges, and community groups, showcasing the diversity and richness of Pakistani culture.

The main flag hoisting ceremony in Rawalpindi was held at Government Viqarun Nisa Post-Graduate College whereas the district administration organised a firework show at Liaquat Bagh.

Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) Tahira Aurangzeb was the chief guest in both the ceremonies.

Speaking on the occasion, Tahira Aurangzeb urged all the countrymen to play a constructive role for the country’s development.

“Our forefathers made a historic struggle for the freedom under the zealous leadership of Quaid-i-Azam. It is the reward of this struggle and endless sacrifices that we are free today,” she said, terming the youth a national asset. Commissioner Rawalpindi Aamir Khattak said respecting the national flag was a duty of every Pakistani citizen.

“Today we have to pledge that we will all work together for the development of the country,” he said.

PML-N MPA Asma Abbasi said August 14 was the day of renewal of pledge that “we have to further strengthen the country.” “Students are the asset of our nation. They are the future of our country,” she said.

College Principal Prof Dr Zahida Parveen said the Viqarun Nisa college had been organising Independence Day events for the past many years which was a matter an honour for the institution.

Later, the participants plant saplings in the college premises as part of the ongoing tree-plantation campaign. A cake was also cut by the guests in the ceremony which was attended by the representatives of 110 colleges.

The Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE), Rawalpindi, also arranged an event which was attended by a large number of the board officers and officials.

Chairman of the board Muhammad Adnan Khan was the chief guest. Those attended the ceremony included Secretary Prof Asif Hussain, Controller Examinations Tanveer Asghar Awan and Media Manager Arslan Cheema.

After the flag-hoisting, the participants cut a cake and prayed for the country’s well-being.

The women wing of the PML-N also arranged a function at Iqbal Road which was attended by local leaders.

The workers of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) carrying party flags were also seen on the roads.

Similarly, a colourful Independence Day ceremony was held at the campus of Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, where the participants planted saplings, cut a cake and hoisted the national flag.

Vice-Chancellor of the university Prof Muhammad Naeem, Registrar Aqeel Sultan, heads of various faculties and departments, administrative officers, students and employees participated in the event.

Islamabad

Malaysian Deputy High Commissioner Mohammad Syafiq Firdous Bin Hasbullah attended an event held at the Maroof International Hospital (MIH).

Speaking on the occasion, the Malaysian diplomat emphasised the strong Islamic, historical, and cultural ties between Pakistan and Malaysia and extended felicitations to all Pakistanis on the Independence Day.

The staff of the MIH took part in the celebrations by decorating their respective departments. These decorations were then evaluated by the hospital management, and prizes were awarded to the top five teams.

Meanwhile, as part of the Independence Day celebrations, GAK HealthCare International Ltd (GHI) and its constituent institutions launched a tree plantation drive. In addition to the tree plantation activities, the celebrations also featured a flag hoisting event, awareness talks and cake cutting ceremony.

Similarly, a special ceremony was held at the Head Office of Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco) in which officers of the company, workers and their families participated.

PODA event

Meanwhile, Potohar Organisation for Development Advocacy (PODA), a women’s rights NGO working for promotion and protection of human rights in rural areas through education, training and advocacy, under its Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change Education Programme arranged a key plantation event at Family Park in G-10/1, where many families joined in the tree-planting efforts.

Officials from the Ministry of Climate Change attended the event and spoke to children about the importance of tree planting and seed preservation. They also planted a Neem tree in the park as a memorable gesture and expressed appreciation for PODA’s efforts in climate change education.

PODA Chief Executive Officer Sameena Nazir emphasised the importance of practical plantation education in schools, highlighting the need for children to understand the critical role of trees in protecting our environment amidst current climate risks.

“Such activities are crucial for climate education and for fostering a greener, more sustainable future,” she added.

Sports Gala

A grand sports gala was held at the Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad. The event featured an array of sports competitions, drawing participants and spectators alike to join in the patriotic festivities.

Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, a series of thrilling sports events took place across the complex, including basketball, football, futsal, volleyball, karate, taekwondo, chess and hockey in their designated areas.

Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2024