The 59th Independence Day celebrations were held in Karachi on Monday in a befitting manner offering prayers for the progress and prosperity of the people of Pakistan and return of peace in the Muslim World.
The day began with prayers, a 21-gun salute, hoisting of flags and change of guards at the Mausoleum of the Quaid-e-Azam where cadets of the Pakistan Naval Academy took over the guard's duty.
The Commandant of the PNA, Commodore Asif Saleem, offered 'Fateha' and laid the wreath at the 'Mazar' of the Quaid. Representatives of the three defence services also offered Fateha and laid wreath.
Sindh Governor, Dr Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan, Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim, along with cabinet members and Nazim of Karachi, Syed Mustafa Kamal, offered prayers and laid wreath.
Flag-hoisting ceremonies were held at the Corps Headquarters and the units of Pakistan Army. The city was illuminated and decorated with coloured bulbs, flags, buntings and festoons. All government buildings including Sindh High Court, building of the defunct Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Civic Centre, Karachi Port Trust and Customs House continued to remain the main attraction of the people.
A number of political, social and cultural organisations arranged programmes to mark to highlight the importance of the occasion. The Pakistan Television, private channels and Radio Pakistan aired special programmes to mark the celebrations.
APP ADDS: Meanwhile, paying homage to the father of the nations Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Sindh Governor Dr Ishrat-ul-Ibad reiterated commitment to make Pakistan a true Islamic and democratic state in accordance with the vision and principles of father of the nation. While talking to media, Dr Ibad also called for concentrated efforts by people to make Pakistan more prosperous and further stable democratic state. Congratulating the entire Pakistani nation on the Independence Day, he advised them to join hands with the Government in nation building.