QUETTA: For the first time in recent years, Quetta reverberated with slogans of “Pakistan Zindabad” as people in their thousands thronged various streets on cars, rickshaws, motorcycles and on foot.

As in other cities and towns in the country there was a festive mood all over the Balochistan capital.

Important city arteries like Zarghoon Road, Jinnah Road  and Prince Road saw thousands of youth riding motorcycles and cars, some of which blared out national songs.

The roads were a sea of green as most vehicles and pedestrians carried the national flag.

“We are happy to watch youth dancing in traditional Pakhtoon and Balochi fashion,” said an official of the district administration. “The sight of people  swarming roads and markets to celebrate the independence day after a long time has warmed our hearts,” he added.

The presence of women and children in big numbers lent a homely touch to the atmosphere.

Some youths were seen indulging their passion for one-wheeling after taking out silencer from their bikes.

Important government buildings like the Governor House, Chief Minister House, Balochistan Assembly, Balochistan High Court, the Secretariat and the Frontier Corps headquarters were bathed in fancy lights.

A display of fireworks organised by the Frontier Corps thrilled crowds at the Ayub Stadium. There was an impressive turnout at a tribal jirga organised by the Frontier Corps.