ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the prestigious Nishan-i-Imtiaz on Asif Bashir on Friday in acknowledgment of his exceptional contributions to public service.

Senior officials and parliamentarians attended the award ceremony, held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. A citation read during the event highlighted Asif Bashir’s commendable performance as Deputy Commissioner in Peshawar and his role as a Moavin-i-Hajj (Hajj Assistant) during the previous year’s Hajj operation.

During the Hajj season, temperatures peaked at 51.8°C, causing immense hardship for the pilgrims. Moavineen, tasked with assisting Pakistani Hujjaj, went above and beyond their duties, often aiding pilgrims from other countries.

Assigned to Mina, Asif Bashir led his five-member team during a crisis on the 9th of Zil Hajj when numerous elderly pilgrims from Pakistan, India, and the UK fainted due to the extreme heat. Tragically, the day saw the loss of 1,300 lives.

Amidst the chaos, Asif Bashir and his team provided immediate first aid, saving many lives. Notably, Asif Bashir personally carried 26 affected individuals, including 17 Indians, to the hospital. His swift response helped avert further tragedy.

Among those rescued were relatives of the Indian Council General in Jeddah, prompting India’s Minister for Minorities Affairs to send a letter of appreciation for the Pakistani team’s outstanding support and hospitality.

The award recognizes Asif Bashir’s selfless efforts and dedication, further strengthening the spirit of humanitarian service.