Srinagar, October 23, 2025 – In a proactive step towards ensuring the seamless execution of the 2nd Edition of the Kashmir Marathon, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, convened a high-level meeting today to meticulously review logistical and operational arrangements. Scheduled for November 2 at the iconic Polo Ground, the flagship event is poised to attract over 2,000 participants from across India and abroad, blending athletic fervour with Kashmir’s cultural and tourism allure.The comprehensive review, attended by key stakeholders including Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation , Director Tourism, Vice Chairman Lakes and Waterways Development Authority , Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, SSP Traffic, Director Health Services, and representatives from departments such as Information, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited, Roads & Buildings (R&B), Public Health Engineering (PHE), and Youth Services & Sports, focused on multi-faceted preparations. Div Com Garg underscored the imperative for holistic infrastructure at the flag-off and finishing venue, directing immediate enhancements in electricity supply, sanitation, first-aid stations, and toilet facilities to guarantee participant comfort and safety.
A highlight of the discussions was the planning for a unified medal ceremony for the Full Marathon (7 hours)and Half Marathon (3 hours) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), fostering a celebratory atmosphere. To amplify the event’s cultural dimension, arrangements for a three-day exhibition featuring local artisanal products from the Handicrafts & Handloom, Horticulture, and Agriculturedepartments were greenlit, aiming to spotlight Kashmir’s heritage while boosting local economies.For operational efficiency, Garg mandated the swift establishment of a Command & Control Centre to facilitate real-time inter-departmental coordination. Traffic management emerged as a priority, with instructions to Director Tourism and SSP Traffic to procure sufficient barricades along the route, minimizing disruptions in the bustling Srinagar thoroughfares. Emergency preparedness took center stage, as the Health Department was tasked with deploying a water ambulance in Dal Lake, setting up 17 staffed aid stations en route, and inaugurating a field hospital at Polo View for post-race recovery. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) was alerted to ready their boats for potential water-based contingencies in collaboration with Tourism officials.
Aesthetic and safety enhancements were equally emphasised: Commissioner SMC received directives to adorn the marathon path with potted flower plants in partnership with Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), alongside rigorous sanitation drives and stray dog control measures. The R&B Department was held accountable for a pothole-free track, while provisions for bottled drinking water and refreshments at strategic points were thoroughly vetted to sustain runners through the challenging Himalayan terrain.Div Com Garg also called for the Director Tourism to disseminate a detailed route blueprint to all agencies, ensuring synchronized responsibilities. This edition builds on the inaugural marathon’s success, reinforcing Kashmir’s ascent as a premier sports hub amid a surge in regional events like the Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) 2025 and Lidderwat Trail Run. The marathon not only promotes fitness and youth engagement but also serves as a vibrant platform for tourism promotion, drawing global attention to the valley’s scenic splendor and resilient spirit.As registrations continue to pour in, authorities anticipate a transformative weekend that unites communities and elevates Jammu & Kashmir’s profile on the international sporting map.
