KHYBER: The tribesmen of Khyber celebrated 72nd Independence Day of Pakistan with patriotic zeal and fervour, and pledged to sacrifice for the motherland in terms of its development and prosperity. In this regard, number of programmes were organised across the district. Dozens of people gathered at Torkham border, where Afghan security officials felicitated their Pakistani counterparts. They also presented sweets to Commandant Khyber Rifles Farrukh Humayun. The Landi Kotal assistant commissioner Niaz Muhammad was also present on the occasion. Meanwhile, thousands of dwellers of the region, security personnel and district administrative officials attended the main event of the day which was organised at sports ground of Hamza Baba Cultural Complex in Landi Kotal subdivision, under the auspices of Khyber Sports Club. Many competitions including tug-of-war, martial arts, athletics, gymnastics, weight lifting and shooting sports were held as part of celebrations. Later, patriotic songs, speeches and dramas were presented to enthrall the audience. Earlier on the eve of August 14th, several tribesmen decorated their houses and business centers while at midnight, a spectacular firework display was hosted at Pakistan Army’s Landi Kotal cantonment followed by a music show performed at Zakha Khel area of Khyber. In the morning, Jamrud assistant commissioner Zahid Usman hoisted Pakistan’s national flag during an event held in Jamrud, in which newly elected member of National Assembly (MNA) for the constituency NA-43 Pir Noorul Haq Qadri participated. A large number of tribal elders and administrative officials were present on the occasion when a beautiful floral wreath was laid on the monument of martyrs. Subsequently, an Independence Day parade was arranged in Landi Kotal and Jamrud to mark the day. Published in Daily Times, August 15th 2018.