Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab join Sindh in elaborate Independence Day plans

PESHAWAR/LAHORE: Preparations for Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day are underway across the country, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab issuing elaborate plans for province-wide celebrations and activities.

Earlier, the Sindh government had unveiled elaborate celebration plans for upcoming August 14, 2025. Public rallies, national song evenings, youth sports competitions, and cultural performances such as poetry recitals, qawwali nights, and theater are made part of the Independence Day celebrations in Sindh.

Now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has announced that this year’s theme will be Marka-e-Haq. According to a notification issued by the Department of Antiquities, all museums and archaeological sites in the province will offer free entry to visitors from August 1 to 14, 2025.

Citizens will not be charged any fee for access to historical locations during this period.

The department has also announced a 50 per cent discount on fees for producing commercial videos and films at archaeological sites and museums. All activities must be conducted in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs), and arrangements for cleanliness and security have also been directed at all sites.

PUNJAB INTENSIFIES PREPARATIONS TOO

In Punjab, preparations for Independence Day events have intensified following instructions from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. August 14 celebrations will take place at the tehsil, district, and divisional levels.

The plans for Punjab’s celebrations were revealed today in a ceremony in Jhelum. Advisor General of Health Azhar Kayani participated in the event and cut a cake to mark the occasion.

In Punjab too, the focus remains on encouraging public participation, promoting cultural heritage, and ensuring safety and access for all citizens during the Independence Day festivities.

Also read: Women’s bike rally in Karachi kicks off Independence Day celebrations