Independence Day Parade held in Gilgit
Our Correspondents
Gilgit, August 14: Fireworks, parade and singing of national songs marked the commemoration of the 68th Independence Day of Pakistan here in Gilgit. A colorful event was held under the auspices of the Pakistan Army’s Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA) and the paramilitary Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts.
The late night parade was attended among others by Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan Syed Mehdi Shah, Speaker GBLA Wazir Baig and the Commander of the FCNA, Maj. Gen Asim Muneer. Members of the GBLA and dignitaries from all walks of life were also present in large numbers. The region’s Chief Secretary, Sikandar Sultan Raja was also present along with secretaries of different departments.
Scouts and Girls Guides presented a colorful march past at the occasion, while national songs were also performed by groups of children. The national anthem was played and contingents of Pakistan Army and Police also performed a march past.
The gathering was addressed by Chief Minister Syed Mehdi Shah who congratulated the nation on the occasion of the Independence Day. He also paid glowing tributes to the heroes of freedom and urged the younger generations to follow their footsteps and build Pakistan into a stronger and more prosperous nation.
Tributes were also paid to the soldiers who are fighting war against terrorists in the North Waziristan region. Prayers were offered for the souls of the martyrs.
In a separate event a candle light vigil was held at a monument of the martyrs of Giyari. The event was attended among others by Sadia Danish, Info minister.
A number of other events were also held earlier today as part of the independence day celebrations, underway since the beginning of August. A polo tournament started at the Aga Khan Shahi Polo Ground today in which teams from the GB PWD and Police (A) competed.
In the morning, more events have been planned in different parts of the region, in all district headquarters, at schools, community centers and other localities.
A rally of pipebands will be held in Gulmit, the Tehsil Headquarters of Gojal Valley, in which six pipebands from the region will come together to celebrate the independence day. Sports tournaments and cultural programmes will also be held in different parts of the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
