Independence Day celebrations have commenced across Pakistan under the official theme of “Marka-e-Haq,” with various events and activities being held nationwide. “Marka-e-Haq” refers to the period of conflict with India, from the April 22 attack on Pahalgam to the conclusion of “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos” on May 10.
This year, some parts of the country may witness a four-day holiday stretch in August, as Independence Day and the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) are expected to fall on consecutive days. The Cabinet Division has confirmed that August 14 will be a public holiday to mark Independence Day.
Chehlum, which commemorates the 40th day of mourning after the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), is anticipated to fall on Thursday, August 15. While it is not a federal public holiday, provincial governments and local administrations have the authority to declare a holiday in their respective regions.
In 2024, the Sindh government had declared a holiday for all public and private schools across the province for Chehlum. If similar provincial holidays are declared this year, it could lead to an extended weekend, with Friday, August 16, and Saturday, August 17, potentially combining with the official holidays for a four-day break. Formal announcements regarding Chehlum-related holidays at the provincial level are currently awaited.
