DERA ISMAIL KHAN: The Marka-i-Haq Sports Festival started in Tank the other day in collaboration with the department of sports, to commemorate Independence Day.

On the first day of the festival, traditional wrestling matches were held, drawing a large crowd of enthusiasts. Wrestlers from Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, and the Punjab participated in the event, showcasing their skills and receiving applause.

The district sports officer, Irfanullah Betni, was chief guest at the wrestling event. He stated that the sports festival was aimed at engaging youth in positive activities and promoting traditional sports. The festival will feature volleyball, javelin throw, cricket, and football competitions at various venues.

He said the department of sports is committed to utilising all resources to promote sports and develop playing fields. At the conclusion of the wrestling event, cash prizes and trophies were distributed among the top-performing athletes.

Meanwhile, the district administration and Pakistan Army jointly organised the Jashn-i-Azadi National Cycle Race in connection with Independence Day and the Marka-i-Haq celebrations.

A total of 100 renowned cyclists from inter-district and inter-provincial levels enthusiastically participated in the 43-kilometre race.

The citizens gathered in large numbers along the route, warmly welcomed the participants and chanted slogans to encourage them.

The race began at the CPEC Yarik Toll Plaza, where all necessary arrangements were in place, with senior officials from relevant departments and the Pakistan Army present. The race concluded at Chehkan Fort after passing through its designated route.

Special measures were taken by the district administration, police, and rescue agencies to ensure security and smooth traffic flow throughout the event.

The additional deputy commissioner Dera, Adnan Jamil, said the aim of the race was not only to promote sports but also to celebrate Independence Week and the Marka-i-Haq with zeal and fervour.

He termed the hosting of national-level events in Dera Ismail Khan a positive step, adding that the successful race was the result of excellent teamwork by all the departments.

Sanaullah (HEC) Bib No. 101 secured first position by completing the race in one hour, five minutes and 49 seconds, and won a cash prize of Rs150,000.

Umar Farooq (HEC) Bib No. 103 finished second in one hour, seven minutes, and 56 seconds, and earned Rs 100,000, while Sajid Zia (Punjab) Bib No. 107 claimed third place in one hour, eight minutes, and six seconds, and received Rs 50,000.

The closing ceremony, held at Chehkan Fort, was graced by the GOC 40 Division, Major General Nek Nam Muhammad Baig, as chief guest.

He congratulated the Pakistan Cycling Federation, the organisers, and participants from across the country for making the event a success.

He also highlighted Dera Ismail Khan’s cultural and historical importance, noting that such events reflect the region’s journey from restored peace towards sustainable harmony.

Trophies, shields, and cash prizes were distributed among the top performers. The officials from the district administration and Pakistan Army emphasised that engaging youth in healthy activities was essential to promote positivity, harmony, and sports culture in the society.

MOTORCYCLIST DIES: A young motorcyclist was killed while another escaped unhurt the other day in a collision between a motorcycle and a trailer near Kacha Pakka Mor checkpost on Chashma Road.

A Rescue 1122 official said the accident occurred when two persons riding a motorcycle collided with a trailer near the check post. As a result, one of them died on the spot while the other survived. The deceased was identified as Mehtab Hussain.

Published in Dawn, August 11th, 2025