Pakistan welcomes 2019 with dazzling displays of fireworks

KARACHI: Pakistanis celebrated New Year's Eve with traditional passion and zeal, and colourful displays of fireworks in major cities including Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.

Spectacular displays of fireworks were held at several places across the country, including Karachi's Sea View beach. A large number of revellers gathered at the places where the celebrations were organised to welcome the new year.

The skyline was lit up with dazzling displays of fireworks as the clock struck midnight.

 

Earlier, the Sindh government said that all routes in Karachi will remain open for traffic for New Year's Eve, saying the citizens were free to celebrate but responsibly.

However, a ban on aerial firing and swimming in the sea on New Year's Eve was placed to avoid any untoward incident.

For the first time a fireworks show was organised at Sea View.  

 

Adviser to Sindh CM Murtaza Wahab said there was a ban on swimming in the sea, but visiting the beach wasn't restricted. He said the ways leading to the Sea View beach from Bilawal House and Saudi Consulate would be open.

Patrolling was stepped up across major cities for snap checking.

 

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah had earlier directed the divisional administration and police to keep the Sea View beach area open for public on New Year’s Eve.

However, he had demanded strict action against those carrying weapons, using narcotics and harassing visitors.