Srinagar: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Thursday, chaired a high-level meeting to review preparations for the Nasha Mukt J&K Padyatra scheduled on May 3, stressing the need for careful planning, coordination and smooth execution.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the DIG Central Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner SMC, Director Information & Public Relations, Director Health Services, SSP Traffic, and heads of departments such as School Education, Higher Education, Transport, Culture, Hospitality & Protocol and Tribal Affairs.
Reviewing the arrangements, the Divisional Commissioner asked all departments to work in close coordination and ensure timely execution of their responsibilities. He also directed that stakeholders and special guests be formally invited well in advance.
Special focus was laid on preparations at the Football Stadium, which will host the flag-off ceremony, as well as arrangements along the route and at the culmination point. Officials were instructed to set up pandals and ensure adequate seating for VVIPs, dignitaries and participants. Participants have been asked to reach the venue before 7:30 AM to ensure the event begins on time.
On transportation, a nodal officer has been tasked with preparing a detailed plan to facilitate smooth movement of students and participants, ensuring adequate availability of vehicles at designated points.
The Information Department has been assigned to boost outreach and visibility through a public address system, a theme-based video, digital display of the anti-drug pledge, and the use of thematic flags and banners. To enhance public participation, the Divisional Commissioner also called for forming a human chain of students from the venue up to Poloview.
The Deputy Commissioner Srinagar has been asked to ensure essential services along the entire route of the padyatra, while the Culture Department will organise performances, including songs and thematic presentations within a fixed timeframe. The Hospitality & Protocol Department has been directed to arrange refreshments for participants in advance, and for VVIPs and dignitaries at the venue.
Security and crowd management will be handled by the Police Department, which will also deploy a police band during the event.
Reiterating the importance of the initiative, the Divisional Commissioner said the padyatra is aimed at promoting a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir and called for collective efforts from all departments to make the event a success.
