In addition, flag hoisting ceremonies were held at practically all areas of the city. Flags were also hoisted on the streets, with one particular group hoisting it on the street near the Dutt Mandir Chowk consecutively for the past 20 years. The flag was, however, brought down by a speeding motorist, whose identity the police are yet to ascertain.

Speaking at the historic 450-year-old fort in the Chowk Bazaar area, Narottam Patel appealed to the people to realise the goals envisaged by the national leaders. He also felicitated a number of freedom fighters of the district on the occasion.

In an impressive rally organised by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) after the flag-hoisting ceremony, thousands of school children depicted different phases and incidents in the country's freedom struggle through floats. The rally was carried out from the Railway Station to Chowk. One of the highlights of the rally was a display by the SMC firemen.

Chairman of the Nagar Prathamik Shikshan Samiti Hitendra Chudawala also hoisted the Tricolour at the Samiti headquarters at Sangadiwad, Gopipura, a statement issued here said.

At the police parade grounds at Ahwa lines, an impressive march past was organised by the city police force after the flag-hoisting ceremony.

According to the police, no untoward incidents was registered at any place in the city and all the celebrations passed off peacefully. Collector Shah expressed his gratitude to all the traders and businessmen who sold their items at discounted rated to mark the occasion.