LAHORE: Flag hoisting, tree planting, speech contests and rallies were organised by public and private institutions in the city to markthe75thIndependence Day of the country.

Prayers for the security and progress of Pakistan and the well-being of the people were offered.

The day also witnessed rallies and people hoisted national flags atop their houses and on vehicles. The youngsters enjoyed the day by hitting roads, enjoying events and having their faces painted. People of all ages came out and a number of people gathered at Liberty roundabout and enjoyed dances to beat of drums and singing national songs.

The Punjab Horticulture Authority (PHA) hoisted a 200-foot high national flag at Jillani Park. Around 300 worl(ers of the PHA worked hard for nine days to make the flag. Minister Aslam Iqbal hoisted the flag at the ceremony. The PHA also turned lights of roads and parks green.

Flag-hoisting and tree planting ceremonies were also held in all public and private educational institutes including the Punjab University`s New Campus, the University of Management and Technology (UMT), Sitara-oHilal Foundation (SHF), the University of Education, the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS), the University of Engineering and Technology (UET), the University of Home Economics (UHE), and the University of Okara.

Provincial Health Minister Dr Yasmin Rashid participated as a special guest in the events organised at the King Edward Medical University and the Fatima Jinnah Medical University.

Punjab Assembly Speal(er Sibtain Khan hoisted the Pakistani flag at the Assembly building, which was preceded by a siren. The speaker, along with the C&W minister and secretary assembly, inspected the guard of honour. A ceremony was held at Camp Jail on Ferozepur Road. Provincial minister Mian Aslam Iqbal and Interior Minister retired Col Hashim Dogar attended the ceremony.