The wait is over! Arshad Nadeem, who clinched the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, arrived in Lahore in the wee hours of Saturday. The plane carrying Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan's first Olympic gold medalist in 40 years, has landed at Lahore Airport.
Lahore Airport was abuzz with excitement as Pakistan's Olympic gold medalist, Arshad Nadeem, returned home to a hero's welcome. Hundreds of fans, including over a hundred members of his family, gathered to catch a glimpse of the nation's pride.
Flight TK 714, carrying Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem, touched down at Lahore's Allama Iqbal Airport at 1:27 PM. As a mark of respect and celebration, the plane was honored with a water cannon salute, a traditional gesture reserved for special occasions.
Arshad Nadeem media talk
Upon his arrival, Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem was showered with bouquets and praise as he spoke to the media about his historic win.
With gratitude in his heart, Arshad Nadeem credited his coach's tireless efforts and the nation's prayers for his success.
“Allah has honored me through the prayers of my nation and parents,” he said. “I’m proud to have made Pakistan’s name shine bright in the world.”
Arshad Nadeem also acknowledged the Prime Minister's youth program, which he believes played a significant role in his journey. "Behind my success is the hard work of my coach and me," he emphasized.
Expressing his gratitude, Arshad Nadeem thanked the Pakistan Board and his coach for their unwavering support. "There's a long journey behind this success," he said, humbly sharing his story.
Preparations
The Punjab Police Band extended a warm welcome to the national hero at Lahore Airport.
In a historic move, Lahore Police arranged an exceptional VVIP protocol for Arshad Nadeem. More than 150 police officers and personnel will ensure his security, with a traffic police pilot leading the way in front of his convoy. The convoy will be closely followed by elite force vehicles, reflecting the significance of his achievement.
According to police officials, a DSP-rank officer and a traffic pilot will accompany Arshad Nadeem throughout his journey until he reaches his final destination. Divisional SPs, along with SDPOs and SHOs, will be on hand to receive him in their respective areas.
In Arshad Nadeem's hometown of Mian Channu Chak 101, an announcement was made urging locals to prepare to welcome him at the airport. Official buses have been arranged to transport residents from his village to Lahore Airport to greet their hero.
The Lahore Traffic Police, in coordination with Ring Road Police, have finalized traffic management plans on the routes surrounding Lahore Airport. Under the supervision of SP Munir Hashmi, six inspectors and 42 wardens will be deployed to ensure smooth traffic flow on Service Road, Ring Road, Askari 10, and Airport Road, anticipating the large crowds expected to gather.
Arshad Nadeem family
Over a hundred members of Arshad Nadeem's family have also arrived at the airport, eager to celebrate his triumph. To ensure their comfort, food arrangements have been made, courtesy of Minister Bukhari's efforts.
Provincial and federal ministers
Information Minister Azmi Bukhari, federal ministers, PM Shehbaz's adviser Khawaja Saad Rafique, Rana Mashoood and high officials gather to welcome Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem.
Ms Bukhari, speaking to the media, praised Arshad Nadeem as the "hero of the nation" and expressed his pride in welcoming him home.
A double-decker bus was brought to the airport to transport Arshad Nadeem, but due to the late hour, Minister Bukhari announced that the champion would proceed directly to his hometown of Mian Channu instead.
Wajahat Hussain
Large boards adorned with his pictures have been put up across the airport, with a special board from the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) prominently displayed at the reception camp to honor the nation’s pride.
AFP President Wajahat Hussain has already arrived at the airport to personally greet Arshad Nadeem. Speaking to Sama, Hussain expressed his anticipation and eagerness to welcome the champion, stating, "I have spent the day with great difficulty, eager to see our hero return home."
In his conversation, Wajahat Hussain also highlighted the Federation's commitment to supporting Arshad Nadeem in his future competitions. He assured that more facilities and resources would be provided to the athlete to ensure his continued success on the global stage.
"Arshad Nadeem is the first spark," Hussain remarked, "Now it’s time for all our athletes to shine."
Former cricketer Mushtaq Ahmed has among others have also reached the airport
Arshad Nadeem's former coach, Fayyaz Bukhari, and fellow javelin thrower Yasir Sultan, are also present at the airport to welcome him back home.
Security
To ensure a smooth and secure welcome, Punjab Police officials have been deployed to handle the security situation at the airport. A team of female police officers is also present at the airport, adding a touch of warmth and hospitality to the security arrangements.
A separate arrival state guest lounge will be opened exclusively for Arshad Nadeem's arrival, allowing him to receive a dignified and comfortable welcome. But what's catching everyone's attention is the deployment of commandos for Arshad Nadeem's security.
