City District Government in collaboration with the news channel City 42 organised the annual Azm-e-Pakistan civil parade on March 23 at the Main Boulevard in Lahore in connection with Pakistan Day celebrations.
Starting from Liberty roundabout, the parade marched to Main Market and then back to Liberty roundabout.
Bands of army, rangers and police marched during the parade while Pakistan’s biggest flag was also carried along. A squad of traffic wardens took out a bike rally on the occasion.
There were various cultural and theme floats, folk dances and special performances by Lucky Irani Circus and Rafi Peer Theatre during the event.
Old and antique cars, limousines and heavy bikes were also presented during the parade.
Patriotic songs were played throughout the event, which kept people’s emotions high. Pakistani singer Humaira Arshad was on hand to sing patriotic songs to the audience.
The parade was followed by fireworks after dark.
Huge crowds of citizens from various walks of life including the youth, children and families came to watch the parade and to show their love and support for the country.
“It’s really good,” said Ashfaq Irshad who had come to watch the parade with his wife. “The fanfare, the display of patriotism and national fervour are amazing.”
For most people, the event above all was entertaining.
“We are enjoying it. It’s a really good thing. Even the arrangements are good. There must be more of such entertainment for people,” Sabina Ali told Pakistan Today.
Not everyone was happy with the arrangements though. While many were excited and took delight in the event, others said they were disappointed with the management of the parade.
“Last time it was better… We enjoyed it a lot last year. That is why we came again this year. But there is no proper arrangement here or a place to sit. We can’t even see properly,” said Sabiha Mumtaz who had come with her family to watch the parade.
Many people had to climb the fences or the stairs of the shops nearby to get a proper view of the parade. Many people decided to leave without watching as they couldn’t get a good view of the proceedings.
Sara Farooq who had come with her children said, “I brought my kids to watch the parade. But there is no proper arrangement. We can’t even see, so we are going back home.”
March 23 marks the Pakistan Resolution Day, or the Pakistan Day when a resolution was passed for the creating of Pakistan in 1940 at Minar-e-Pakistan. This was a significant milestone in the struggle for independence which was finally achieved on August 14, 1947. It is commemorated every year throughout the country. Events are organised where citizens express their love for the homeland.
