Sales of national flag surge in city

Like other parts of the country, preparations for the 77th Independence Day are in full swing in the provincial metropolis and the sale of national flags has increased.

The government and private departments are busy finalising programmes for the day.

In this connection, the main ceremony will be organised at Huzuri Bagh with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif as the chief guest.

The departments will present various shows, including a flower exhibition, tableaus, dramas and speeches till August 14.

Government and private buildings would be decorated with national flags. Bazaars decorated for the Independence Day celebrations have begun to bustle. Stalls have large flags, colourful clothes and ornaments, children's masks, badges, watches, hair catchers, bangles and hats.

The citizens were seen buying flags for cars, motorcycles and houses. Some are busy buying small flags, badges and green bangles.

While the children appeared to take the lead in shopping for the occasion, shopkeepers said the prices of the items are considerably higher this year than the past.

The production of national flags, buntings, pictures of national heroes and stickers has increased in Anarkali, Ichhra Bazaar, Lohari, Qilla Luchhman Singh, Gwalmandi, Saddar, Moon Market and other areas.

Business of the items at all big stores as well as by roadside vendors is at the peak.

The police have also planned to make foolproof security arrangements in the provincial metropolis to avoid any untoward incident on the occasion.