Lahore: The 80th Independence Day of Pakistan was celebrated with national enthusiasm and patriotic fervour across the country, including Lahore, on Friday.
The day began with a 21-gun salute in Lahore, while special prayers were offered during Fajr for the country’s progress, unity, peace and prosperity. Independence Day celebrations commenced at midnight, with citizens expressing their patriotism across the country.
Cities, streets and neighbourhoods were adorned with national flags and illuminated in green and white to mark Jashn-e-Azadi. Major monuments, government buildings and thoroughfares in Lahore, including Mall Road and Jail Road, were decorated with lights, while laser and light shows added to the festive atmosphere.
In Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz led the main provincial flag-hoisting ceremony at historic Hazuri Bagh. A special flag-hoisting ceremony was also held at Gaddafi Stadium.
A change-of-guard ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal, while a separate guard-changing ceremony took place at the Quaid-e-Azam’s mausoleum, where cadets of the Pakistan Naval Academy assumed guard duties. Commandant Pakistan Naval Academy Rear Admiral Muhammad Umair was the chief guest.
A magnificent fireworks display was held at Greater Iqbal Park, while a musical show was organized at Liberty Chowk. A large number of citizens attended the events and celebrated Independence Day with enthusiasm.
Laser and light shows were also organized at Minar-e-Pakistan and Town Hall, attracting large crowds. Various sports activities, including the National Squash Championship, were also held as part of the Independence Day celebrations.
Similar celebrations were held in major cities across the country, including Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta and Multan. Fireworks, illuminations and public events were organized, while citizens took to the streets and rallies were held at various locations.
In Multan, the district administration organized a fireworks display at Ghanta Ghar Chowk, where a large number of citizens gathered to celebrate the national day.
The celebrations reflected the nation’s renewed commitment to unity, peace, prosperity and the progress of Pakistan.
