SRINAGAR, DEC 26: The Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, chaired a high-level meeting today to review civil and security arrangements for the forthcoming Republic Day celebrations.
The meeting, attended by key officials from various departments, aimed to ensure seamless coordination for the celebration of Republic Day. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar; HoDs and representatives from PWD (R&B), KPDCL, School Education, Health Services, PHE, UEED, MED Kashmir; Hospitality & Protocol, Fire & Emergency Services, Academy of Art Culture & Languages, Kashmir; Information department, Floriculture, Regional Transport; J&K Sports Council, Srinagar; Youth Services & Sports, State Motors Garages Kashmir SMC, Srinagar, along with officers from DIG BSF Srinagar, SSP Srinagar, and CRPF, actively participated in the discussions.
Videoconferencing facilitated the inclusion of DCs, DIG CKR, SSPs, and other officers of police and traffic who joined remotely.
Bakshi Stadium, chosen as the main venue following the success of Independence Day-2023 celebrations, will host the Republic Day main function. Similar to Independence Day, the general public is invited, and free entry will be permitted upon the presentation of ID cards.
The Divisional Commissioner issued several directives to ensure the smooth conduct of the National event. He emphasized the need for close synergy among departments and urged officers to play a comprehensive and active role with full responsibility.
Specific directives included selection of contingents, cultural programs, rehearsals, transportation facilities, traffic management, security, refreshments, illumination of government buildings, and other essential arrangements for the event.
The meeting finalized 22 bands and parade contingents, including 14 from Police and security forces, and 8 from NCC and School Children.
The Divisional Commissioner directed various departments to contribute to the celebratory atmosphere, including KPDCL for illumination, PW(R&B) for heating arrangements, and Cultural Academy for arranging patriotic and communal harmony-based cultural programs.
The Floriculture department was tasked with creating more decorative and creative floral arrangements. Health department involvement was crucial, with directives to deploy doctors, paramedics, ambulances, and first aid teams at the celebration venue.
A subsequent visit to Bakshi Stadium by the Divisional Commissioner, accompanied by key officials, aimed to ensure on-the-ground preparations were up to par. The Divisional Commissioner stressed the importance of timely and foolproof arrangements for a successful Republic Day celebration, with zero tolerance for any lapses.
The Divisional Commissioner further emphasised the need for water facilities at the venue and directed officers to ensure adequate drinking water arrangements for participants.
