ISLAMABAD: With Independence Day around the corner, a date which elicits fervent patriotism in various forms throughout the nation, Pakistan Railways has come up with a novel initiative for commemoration with the inception of an ‘Azadi’ train.
The train encapsulates the traditional folk culture and important events which have transpired. The train is a visual representation of the China-Pak Economic Corridor,operation Zarb-e-Azb, violence in Indian-occupied Kashmir, and a glimpse into the history of Pakistan Railways.
The locomotive is in its last phase of preparation and will be inaugurated at Margalla Station, Islamabad on August 11 by the Federal Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique
Moreover, after travelling to almost all the major stations of the country the locomotive will return to Golra Railway Station on September 13.
The Azadi Train is a joint venture of Pakistan Railways, Inter-services Public Relation, Ministry of Information, Pakistan National Council of the Art, and Lok Virsa.
Additionally, folk artists and singers from across the country will perform at all major stations.
The illustrations on show will comprise of: Khyber Pass, Qissa Khawani Bazaar, Qahwa Khana, Chapli Kabab from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), Ziarat Residency, Chagi Mountain, national Balochi rifle from Balochistan, Quaid Mausoleum, ‘Kumar ka Chaka’ from Sindh, Minar-e-Pakistan, Shahi Fort, Ranjit Singh Fort from Punjab and Faisal Mosque, Metro Bus and Solar Park from the federal capital.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 7th, 2016.