ISLAMABAD: Murree has witnessed an unprecedented crowd of tourists who gathered there to celebrate the New Year and to witness the first snowfall of 2024.
Thousands of tourists can be seen on The Mall and near GPO in Murree on Saturday and Sunday. The Sunday night marked an end to the year 2023, and the next morning heralded New Year.
Some social media users claimed the police lathi-charge on the tourists, however, the video clips they shared did not show any such police action.
Murree is one of the hotspots for tourists. Thousands of tourists rush to Murree during the winter and summer seasons to witness snowfall and enjoy their vacations.
Earlier, the Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar declared that all New Year celebrations are prohibited across Pakistan as a demonstration of solidarity with the Palestinians facing severe Israeli aggression since October 7.
Pakistan, consistently advocating for the oppressed Palestinians on the global stage, has condemned Israel’s actions, resulting in numerous casualties. Kakar, in a televised address, stated, “The Pakistani nation is in a somber state,” and in light of the situation, the government decided to ban New Year celebrations.
He appealed to all Pakistanis to show solidarity with the Palestinians and urged simplicity during the new year. Kakar emphasized the catastrophic nature of the ongoing war.
Israel’s persistent air and ground offensive against Hamas have devastated large parts of Gaza, resulting in a death toll of at least 21,320, predominantly affecting women and children.
Kakar highlighted Pakistan’s aid efforts, with two consignments sent to Gaza and a third on the way to alleviate the plight caused by Israel’s bombardment. He mentioned ongoing coordination with Egyptian and Jordanian counterparts to ensure effective assistance for Palestinians.
In Pakistan, New Year’s functions, both private and government-led, are widespread. However, due to the current situation, celebrations are banned to prevent injuries and deaths resulting from celebratory firing and reckless driving.
In a parallel expression of solidarity, Sharjah, an emirate of the United Arab Emirates with official ties to Israel, also decided to forgo New Year’s Eve fireworks this year. This ban is seen as a sincere expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with the people of Gaza, as stated by Sharjah police on Facebook.
