73 International Athletes From 12 Countries Join Sporting Event; 42.195-KM Full Marathon Scheduled at 6:30 AM
Srinagar, October 25:
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday flagged off the third edition of the Kashmir International Marathon in Srinagar, bringing together athletes from different parts of India and abroad in a major sporting event aimed at promoting Kashmir’s tourism potential, sporting culture and international visibility.
The event has witnessed participation from a diverse group of runners, with 1,807 online registrations recorded, including 1,221 participants from Jammu and Kashmir, 513 runners from other parts of the country and 73 international athletes representing 12 countries. The Tourism Department expects the overall participation to exceed 2,000 runners.
The marathon features two major race categories, with the 42.195-kilometre full marathon scheduled to start at 6:30 AM, followed by the 21-kilometre half marathon at 7:45 AM.
DAL LAKE, BOULEVARD ROAD TO HIGHLIGHT KASHMIR’S NATURAL BEAUTY
The race routes pass through some of Srinagar’s most prominent scenic locations, including stretches along the Dal Lake, Boulevard Road and Nishat Garden, offering participants an opportunity to experience the Valley’s picturesque landscape and cultural heritage.
Officials said comprehensive arrangements had been made for the smooth conduct of the event. Preparatory measures included road repairs, barricading and other logistical arrangements along the designated routes.
The marathon is envisioned as an annual sporting fixture that can strengthen Kashmir’s position on the national and international sporting calendar while providing local athletes an opportunity to compete alongside runners from across the world.
SPECIAL PRIZE CATEGORY INTRODUCED FOR J&K RUNNERS
In a move aimed at encouraging home-grown sporting talent, a separate prize category has been introduced for runners from Jammu and Kashmir.
The initiative is intended to motivate regional athletes, improve competitive opportunities and provide local participants with a platform to demonstrate their endurance and athletic abilities alongside national and international competitors.
MARATHON EXPO SHOWCASES LOCAL PRODUCTS
The Chief Minister also inaugurated the Marathon Expo, which featured 20 stalls showcasing traditional handicrafts, handloom products, agricultural produce and other locally made goods.
The exhibition provided an opportunity for local entrepreneurs, artisans and businesses to display their products before visiting athletes, tourists and other participants, linking the sporting event with efforts to promote Kashmir’s indigenous products and economic potential.
TRAFFIC ADVISORY ISSUED; EMERGENCY VEHICLES TO GET PRIORITY
Meanwhile, Srinagar Traffic Police announced extensive traffic restrictions and diversions to facilitate the marathon and ensure the safety of runners and commuters.
Motorists and members of the public have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, follow official traffic advisories and use designated alternative routes to avoid inconvenience during the event.
Authorities said emergency services, including ambulances and fire tenders, would be given priority during the traffic restrictions.
For traffic-related assistance, commuters can contact the Srinagar Traffic Police helpline at 103.
The third edition of the Kashmir International Marathon is expected to contribute to the promotion of sports tourism, encourage greater public participation in fitness activities and showcase Srinagar as a destination capable of hosting large-scale national and international sporting events.(KNC)