- Advertisement -
KARACHI, Jul 30 (APP):Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Wednesday announced an expansive and spirited schedule for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations across the province.
Speaking at a press conference, the Chief Minister said the festivities, starting from August 1, will carry the theme “Marka-e-Haq,” symbolising both national pride and the triumph of justice over oppression.
The press conference, held at Sindh Information dept Socail Media Cell, was attended by provincial ministers, including Sharjeel Inam Memon, Nasir Shah, Saeed Ghani, Mohammad Bux Khan Mahar and Zulfiqar Shah.
Shah emphasised that this year’s celebrations would go beyond ceremonial observances, aiming to ignite a renewed sense of patriotism, showcase Sindh’s cultural richness, and honour the resilience of its people, especially those rebuilding their lives after recent floods.
The festivities will commence on August 1, with the overall theme this year aligned with the “Marka-e-Haq’ (Battle of Truth). The Chief Minister emphasised that this year’s celebration will not only mark Independence Day but also the victory of truth against India, reminding the public of the pride of a free nation and contrasting it with the feelings of oppressed peoples.
Highlighting economic progress over the past year, Murad Shah stated that improvement programs, including the flagship initiative “Uraan Pakistan,” will be featured prominently in the independence celebrations.
A special decoration competition will be held, rewarding the best-decorated private buildings, cars, and vehicles. On August 13 and 14, a grand concert will take place at the National Stadium, including a fireworks display.
Major events include, August 8: Event in Hyderabad, August 10 Event in Sukkur alongside a marathon and a traditional donkey cart race from Clifton to Frere Hall, August 13 Cultural boat float from Sea View to Boat Basin, Women’s cycling rally from Karachi to Chokundi. Over 114 programs organised by the Sports Department including Cricket matches: Mayor XI vs Ministers XI on August 8; Qalandars XI vs Bhittai XI at Moeen Khan Academy on August 9, in which the Chief Minister himself will play. Wrestling /Malakhra competition on August 9, Concert at Jahangir Kothari Stadium, Minority Day on August 11, with a large event planned by the Minority Department.
A major event and fair for persons with special needs, with the Chief Minister confirmed to attend. On August 5: Event against the change in the special status of Kashmir, Vintage car and heavy bike rallies, women’s fairs, painting competitions, singing contests, poetry sessions, and a rickshaw rally. Formation of a human chain inviting participation from all citizens.
The CM said that security and traffic plans are being prepared by the Inspector General and DIG Traffic, with a call for public cooperation to ensure smooth proceedings.
The Chief Minister extended invitations to all political parties to participate in the festivities, with official invitations to be sent out soon. Schools will remain open during the celebrations, with the education department organising related programs.
Additional arrangements have been made for those wishing to visit Gorakh Hill and Thar during the holidays. The Chief Minister expressed hopes for strong attendance at the concerts in Karachi, Hyderabad, and Sukkur.
From August 9 to 11, Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s Urs will also incorporate the spirit of Independence Day. The CM reiterated Sindh’s significant role in the creation of Pakistan, noting that although some speeches in the assembly misunderstood this, he had provided a detailed account of Sindh’s contribution. “The Culture Department has been tasked with highlighting Sindh’s struggle and role during the founding of Pakistan during the celebrations,” he said.
This comprehensive program reflects the provincial government’s ambition to foster patriotism, cultural pride, and unity across Sindh during the Independence Day celebrations.
The Chief Minister asserted that the leadership of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will not be intimidated by terrorism, declaring that the threat of terrorism will not disrupt the planned Independence Day festivities in Sindh.
Speaking on preparations for the celebrations, Shah announced that a jury will be constituted specifically to judge the Independence Day decoration competitions. “Separate juries will be appointed for the evaluation of homes, offices, cars, and bikes,” he said. Shah urged the media to actively highlight outstanding decorations and recommended conducting interviews with citizens to further boost public enthusiasm.
Chief Minister Shah clarified that prizes in the decoration competition will not be awarded solely based on the amount of money spent. He expressed his anticipation that flood-affected citizens might win recognition by decorating their newly rebuilt homes, emphasising that the contests are not about monetary value but about showcasing the spirit of patriotism and participation.