Preparations to mark 71st Pakistan Day in full swing

ISLAMABAD: Elaborate preparations are underway to mark the 71st Pakistan Day with national fervor on Friday.

Troopers from Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Air Force, Northern Light Infantry, Mujahid Force, Islamabad Police, Tri-Services Lady officers, Tri-Services Armed Forces Nursing Service, Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, Special Service Group are participating in full-dress rehearsals for the spectacular parade at Shakarparian parade ground.

The traffic police have drawn an alternative traffic plan for the day. Heavy traffic has been barred from entering the federal capital from the midnight of March 21 till 2:00 pm on March 23.

The Islamabad Expressway will also remain closed for all traffic between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm on the day. Pillion riding has been banned in the federal capital for three days starting from March 21.

The timings for arrival and departure of flights at Islamabad airport has been revised to enable Pakistan Air Force jets to rehearse for the parade.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) spokesperson said Islamabad’s airspace will remain closed from 8:00 am to 12:40 pm and 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm for the parade event.

Spectators have been advised to bring their original Computerized National Identity Cards to witness the spectacular ceremony on March 23.

The Pakistan Day is annually celebrated on March 23 to commemorate the Lahore Resolution and Pakistan’s first constitution.