AATIF QAYOOM/ IRFAN YATTOO
Srinagar, Jan 26: In the heart of Srinagar city, the iconic clock tower Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk enthralled visitors in large numbers during the historic live screening of the Republic day commemoration on Friday.
The Clock Tower stood as the focal point, drawing attention to the Republic Day celebrations and captivating a diverse audience through a live screening of this significant event.
An official of Srinagar Municipal Corporation revealed, “The live telecast showcased India’s rich cultural heritage, portraying the essence of Republic Day in all its glory.”
Locals and tourists alike gathered to witness the meticulous initiative by the government, transforming Lal Chowk into a symbol of inclusivity. The atmosphere was joyous amid patriotic fervor, as the audience embraced the live telecast as a collective celebration of pride and unity.
The officer stated, “The choice of Lal Chowk as the venue underscored the government’s commitment to inclusivity, receiving a positive response from the onlookers.”
The vibrant crowd’s enthusiasm reflected a shared identity, with the live telecast serving as a powerful testament to the strength of our national bonds, he said.
Rayees Shah, who lives here, expressed how important the moment was. He said, “Watching the Republic Day show live at Lal Chowk, with its bright lights and where history and unity come together, was something I will always remember.” He emphasized that Lal Chowk is now more than just a place, it’s a symbol of our shared history and a sign of peace in Kashmir.
The live telecast not only showcased the nation’s grandeur but also ignited a wave of positive sentiments. The event fostered optimism, pride, and unity among citizens. The government’s initiative to bring the celebrations to this symbolic location resonated with the people, creating a memorable event for the locals and the tourists alike.
Since the redevelopment of the historic Clock Tower, the place has become a centre of attraction for locals and tourists also.
Meanwhile, thousands of people on Friday flocked to Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, responding to the administration’s open invitation for Republic Day celebrations. Enthusiasm was witnessed as men and women from all walks of life formed eager queues outside the stadium, eager to be part of the grand event.
Advisor to Lieutenant Governor Rajesh Rai Bhatnagar was chief guest and presided over the function. He unfurled tricolor, inspected the parade and was given the ceremonial salute.
Pertinent to mention, the administration had extended open invitations to locals for their active participation in the event. Unlike the past, no restrictions were placed on public movement in Srinagar and other parts. People were freely allowed towards the venues after I-Card verification or precautionary frisking.
Among the attendees, local residents expressed their sentiments about the R-day celebrations. Mudasir Ahmad, a local from Hazratbal said, “It is truly heartening to see so many of us coming together to celebrate Republic Day. The open invitation made us feel like an integral part of the festivities, and I wouldn’t miss this for anything, he said.
Ghulam Nabi, who is a government employee in the Education Department said that it is good to see people are attending Republic Day functions after decades of turmoil. There is a visible change on the ground and people have understood the value of peace, he added.
Smartly dressed contingents of police, paramilitary forces, home guards and school children took part in the parade at Srinagar.
The main function was followed by cultural programmes depicting unity in diversity of the two regions of J&K
Across Kashmir, authorities had placed multi-layer security arrangements for smooth conduct of the January 26 functions. Drones and camera-fitted vehicles and CCTV were used to monitor the overall situation during the functions across Kashmir.
A police officer at PCR Kashmir said that adequate security arrangements were put in place across valley’s main highways, major junctions to thwart any untoward incident.
“High-tech drones and CCTV were used to monitor the overall situation during the functions across Kashmir,” he said.
Public transport, particularly e-buses and cabs, cars, auto-rickshaws were visible on the roads.
Similar Republic Day functions were held at all district headquarters of the valley where respective deputy commissioners presided over the proceedings. In north Kashmir’s Pattan town, a group of school children held a ‘Tiranga’ rally to mark the Republic Day celebrations in the area.
