Four-day public holiday likely from August 14

ISLAMABAD: A four-day holiday is likely in Pakistan from August 14 to 17 due to overlapping public and religious events.

According to a Cabinet Division notification, August 14 (Thursday) will be a public holiday on account of Pakistan’s Independence Day. Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) is expected to fall on Friday, August 15.

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Although Chehlum is not part of the federal holiday calendar, provincial governments can declare a local holiday. Last year, cities like Rawalpindi and Karachi announced public holidays on Chehlum.

If provinces again announce a holiday for Chehlum, the combined break could stretch from Thursday (Independence Day) to Sunday, August 17, including the weekend.

Authorities have issued directives for strict security arrangements to ensure peace during Independence Day and Chehlum processions.

I-DAY PREPARATIONS GEAR UP

Preparations for Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day are in full swing across Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Government buildings, including the Presidency, Parliament House, Supreme Court, and main commercial areas, are being decorated with colourful lights and buntings.

Streets, markets and shopping centres are alive with stalls selling green crescent flags, badges, and patriotic items like themed clothing, hairbands, and keychains.