Residents of Quetta wave Pakistan flags and celebrate Independence Day on decorated streets ahead of August 14.
Citizens carrying Pakistan's national flags gather on illuminated streets in Quetta as Independence Day celebrations gain momentum across Balochistan.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has praised a newly released patriotic song from Balochistan ahead of Pakistan’s Independence Day, as celebrations across the province gather momentum with sports events, illuminated streets, national flags, and public gatherings.

Sharing the song on his official X account on Sunday, the prime minister said the tribute reflected the deep love and commitment of the people of Balochistan towards Pakistan.

“As Independence Day approaches, my heart is filled with pride to see this beautiful and patriotic song coming from Balochistan,” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wrote.

He also thanked the singers, performers, producers and all those involved in creating the song, saying they had “beautifully captured the spirit of love for our beloved homeland.”

Balochistan Gears Up for Independence Day Celebrations

Across Balochistan, preparations for the August 14 celebrations are in full swing. Major roads, public buildings and commercial centers in Quetta and other cities have been decorated with green-and-white national flags, lights and patriotic banners.

Provincial Interior Minister Mir Ziaullah Langov visited Airport Road, Kuchlak and Western Bypass in Quetta to review security arrangements and preparations for Independence Day festivities.

Speaking to media representatives, Langov said Independence Day is a special occasion for every nation and that the people of Balochistan are celebrating the day with enthusiasm and national spirit.

He said the government has made comprehensive security arrangements to ensure peaceful celebrations across the province.

Langove Urges Youth to Choose Education Over Violence

The interior minister urged young people to focus on education, science, technology and democratic participation instead of violence.

“Pakistan is our country and Balochistan is our province. Young people should abandon this futile conflict and serve their nation and homeland through education, technology and politics,” he said.

Langov stressed that democratic institutions remain the best avenue for securing rights and encouraged youth to participate in parliamentary politics and contribute to the development and prosperity of Balochistan.

Comments on Regional Security and Pakistan’s Allies

During the interaction, Langove also welcomed the emerging cooperation among Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia, describing the partnership as a positive message for regional peace and stability.

He stated that stronger defense cooperation among friendly countries would contribute to regional security and deter external threats.

The minister further alleged that India continues to support terrorist activities through networks operating from Afghanistan and criticized the Afghan Taliban administration over its handling of militant groups allegedly targeting Pakistan.

‘Run for Fun’ Marathon Draws Hundreds in Quetta

As part of Independence Day festivities, the Government of Balochistan organized a “Run for Fun” marathon race in Quetta under the supervision of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department.

More than 100 athletes participated in the five-kilometer race, which started from Airport Road and concluded at Ayub Sports Complex.

Athlete Ainullah secured first position, while Rahim finished second and Muhammad Akram claimed third place. Winners were awarded medals and cash prizes.

Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Dara Baloch said that nearly 40 sporting competitions are being organized in Quetta as part of Independence Day celebrations.

“The objective of these activities is to encourage healthy lifestyles, positive engagement and constructive opportunities for young people,” he said.

According to officials, a province-wide sports festival has also been launched on the directives of Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, featuring competitions at district, divisional and provincial levels.

Gwadar Celebrates with Sports Events

In Gwadar, Independence Day celebrations included sports competitions that attracted enthusiastic participation from local youth.

Residents welcomed the events and expressed appreciation to Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti for promoting healthy recreational activities and fostering national unity through sports.

Quetta Illuminated as Independence Day Nears

Meanwhile, Adviser to the Chief Minister on Sports and Youth Affairs Meena Majeed Baloch toured various roads and public spaces in Quetta to review decoration and illumination work.

She said the city’s decorated streets and peaceful atmosphere present the “true picture of Balochistan” to the world.

“People are celebrating Independence Day in a peaceful environment. This is Balochistan, this is Balochistan’s peace, and this is the true picture of the province,” she said.

Meena Baloch noted that while negative perceptions about Balochistan often dominate discourse, the festive atmosphere, illuminated streets and public participation reflect the province’s positive and peaceful reality.

Sariab Road Covered in National Flags

Preparations have also intensified on Quetta’s Sariab Road, where thousands of national flags and Independence Day banners have been installed.

Provincial Minister Haji Ali Madad Jatak oversaw the hoisting of national flags, while major government and private buildings across the city have been illuminated ahead of the August 14 celebrations.

With streets glowing in green and white and sporting events underway across the province, Balochistan is preparing to mark Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with a strong display of patriotism, unity and public participation.