The denizens of twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi are all set to celebrate Independence Day with signature passion and zest. In the days leading up the roads are inundated with flags of all sizes. This Independence day both cities will witness rallies, events, fireworks and ceremonies to pay homage to the national leaders. Both government and opposition parties have scheduled their own events to be held today.
The civic agencies RDA, CDA, Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation, police and district administration have taken necessary steps to tackle any untoward incident. In addition to this, Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation held spectacular fireworks on Saturday night.
The ‘Accountability March’ of PTI is expected to reach Islamabad on Saturday. Furthermore, despite the ban on holding of events and rallies in Rawalpindi, both the ruling party, PML-N and Sheikh Rashid’s Awami Muslim League (AML) will hold public gatherings to show their political might.
Capital Development Authority (CDA) will also run a tourist train from F-9 Park to Lake View Park, organise a show about culture of Pakistan at Arts and Craft Village and hold a three-day Azadi Mela at F-9 Park, Young Award Show at Pak China Friendship Centre and a table tennis tournament.
It is the first Independence Day for Islamabad Mayor Sheikh Ansar Aziz and he is all set to make his presence felt. Metropolitan Corporation will be holding its Independence Day ceremony at Parade Ground, near Shakar Parian, Islamabad.
The PML-N Islamabad chapter will also hold its meeting on Aabpara with the mayor as chief guest.
The concerned DPOs have issued strict instructions to police in general and traffic police in particular to show zero-tolerance towards those indulged in one-wheeling and rash driving on Independence Day. During the past years, many youngsters have lost their lives performing deadly stunts on such occasions.
Shah Rukh Rasool, a business student, speaking to Pakistan Today, said: “This year all the Pakistanis are celebrating 14th August with a renewed passion and zeal. Wherever you look, you see green flags on poles, on cars, and in people’s hands.” He said that the nation is fighting on various fronts and the recent Quetta bomb blast has saddened us even more. It is time to make new promises with ourselves and our motherland that we’ll do our bit to make it safe and great again,’
