Celebrations marked the beginning of 2026 across Pakistan as people welcomed the New Year with fireworks, music and public gatherings in major cities following festivities around the world.
In Karachi, the country’s largest city, Mayor Murtaza Wahab attended a musical night at Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim, where fireworks were planned for midnight. The mayor arrived at the venue on Thursday to participate in an event celebrating the spirit of renowned Sufi saint Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.
During the programme, Wahab requested a Qalandari dhamaal performance in honour of the saint. Singers presented folk music in various regional languages, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity. Organisers said a fireworks display near the beach would take place at midnight, adding that all arrangements for the spectacle had been completed.
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The event aimed to blend New Year celebrations with cultural festivities, offering entertainment while promoting traditional Sufi music and performances.
In Lahore, Liberty Chowk hosted a large-scale fireworks display organised by the Punjab government. A significant number of citizens gathered to witness the show, while police personnel and traffic wardens were deployed to maintain security and manage crowds.
Large crowds, including women and children, also gathered along Mall Road on New Year’s Eve to welcome 2026. Authorities ensured that the main carriageway remained clear, with citizens restricted to sidewalks to prevent disruption and ensure safety.
Churches along Mall Road rang their bells at midnight to mark the start of the New Year, adding to the festive atmosphere. Residents were seen celebrating enthusiastically as the year began.
Meanwhile, Two individuals were injured in separate incidents of aerial firing in Chanesar Goth and Goli Mar Haji Mirad Goth, Karachi.
In separate incidents, two individuals were also injured by bullets from unknown sources at Five Star Chowrangi and Korangi No. 3, according to Edhi authorities.
A man was also injured by a stray bullet near the New Vegetable Market, authorities from Chhipa Rescue reported. All injured were provided medical assistance and transported to nearby hospitals.
Authorities have called for calm and urged residents to refrain from firing weapons during celebrations.
