According to the local media, the authorities in Jeddah have decided to name one of Gowizah district streets after Farman Ali’s name. Farman, who was a young Pakistani, rescued 14 people in Gowizah district from drowning before sacrificing his own life during the worst floods that hit Jeddah two years ago.

Only months ago, the Saudi government had awarded him the highest Saudi civil award to honour his efforts. Farman belonged to a poor area of Swat. Father of three small daughters and a martial arts champion, Farman was running a small shop in Jeddah to earn livelihood for his family. Farman’s effort of saving several people in the floods received wide print and electronic media coverage in the kingdom.

On the instructions of the custodian of the two Holy mosques, King Abdullah, his family was also invited to Jeddah and his father received the award. After his death, his family is getting financial support from the Saudi government. Farman set a remarkable example for others and due to his brave efforts he is still alive in the hearts of thousands of people.

Khawaja Umer FAROOQ                        Jeddah