KARACHI: The 70th Independence Day of Pakistan was commemorated in the metropolis, like other parts of the country, with tremendous spirit and enthusiasm by every section of society. 

All roads of the city were presenting a festive look, as men, women and children celebrated the day by wearing green and playing national songs besides waving national flags of all sizes. 

The celebrations formally began with 21-gun salute by Pakistan Navy and special prayers at all mosques for the stability, security and prosperity of Pakistan as well as for the struggle of Kashmiris for freedom. At universities, healthcare facilities and many other places, special functions were organised to commemorate the day where cake-cutting ceremonies were held and the importance of the day was highlighted in speeches.

Talking to the media, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah after hoisting national flag, laying a wreath and offering fateha at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah said: “Independence was achieved with great sacrifices of our elders and now it becomes our responsibility to protect the sovereignty of the country.” 

He said terrorists were trying to undermine the country but “our people are united against them and they [terrorists] would never succeed in their nefarious designs.” 

Sindh Governor Mohammad Zubair and cabinet members accompanied the chief minister at the flag-hoisting ceremony. The governor said the entire nation paid tribute to the founder of Pakistan under whose leadership the Muslims of the subcontinent got freedom and a sovereign country.

Talking to journalists at the mausoleum, Karachi Mayor Wasim Akhtar said the real tribute that the nation could pay to the Quaid-i-Azam would be to follow his teachings and to make Pakistan a tolerant country.

An impressive ceremony was held at the mausoleum where a smart batch of Pakistan naval academy cadets took over the charge of honorary guards. Pakistan Naval Academy Commandant Commodore Adnan Ahmad laid a wreath at the mausoleum and inspected the guard of honour. 

Air show

In the evening, an air show was organised by Pakistan Air Force at the Clifton beach where the chief minister said that this day reminded the people of the sacrifices made by the Muslims of the subcontinent to have a separate homeland where they could live a life according to the teachings of Islam. 

The chief minister extended his heartfelt felicitation to the PAF for arranging an excellent show. “In fact, this mega activity reflects the love and affection for our motherland. I am sure that this jubilant event would enhance the prestige of our armed forces in the eyes of our civilian brothers.”

KMC rally

Karachi’s Deputy Mayor Arshad Vohra led a procession comprising KMC fire tenders, snorkels and rescue vehicles from the mausoleum of the Quaid to the KMC head office.

Later, speaking at the flag-hoisting ceremony at the KMC head office, the mayor announced that over 13,000 KMC employees would celebrate Independence Day at Bagh-i-Jinnah next year.

Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2017