Independence Day celebrations under the official Marka-E-Haq theme have begun across Pakistan with events and activities held nationwide.
Marka-e-Haq refers to the period of conflict with India from the Pahagam attack on April 22 to May 10th conclusion of Operation Bunyan-Eum-Maroos.
This year, parts of the country are likely to witness a four-day holiday trait in August, when Independence Day and Chehlum from Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) are expected to fall on consecutive days.
According to the cabinet department, August 14 will be observed as a public holiday throughout the country to mark the day of independence.
Chehlum, which marks the 40th mourning day after the martyrdom Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), is expected to fall on Thursday, August 15.
Although not erected between federal holidays, provincial governments and local administrations have authority to declare a holiday in their respective regions.
In 2024, the Sindh government declared a holiday for all public and private schools throughout the province on the occasion of Chehlum.
If similar provincial holidays are declared this year, it could result in an extended weekend with Friday 16 August and Saturday August 17, combining with the official holidays for a potential four-day break.
Currently, formal messages are still expected of chehlum-related vacation at provincial level.
