Srinagar: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Saturday reviewed preparations for Independence Day celebrations across the Valley and directed departments to ensure advance planning, coordinated efforts and timely mobilisation of resources for the smooth conduct of the event.
The review meeting was attended by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V.K. Birdi, deputy commissioners of all districts and senior officials from various departments, including Roads and Buildings, Power Development, Education, Culture, Jal Shakti, Health, Information, Hospitality and Protocol, Traffic Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Doordarshan and SKICC.
According to an official statement, Garg reviewed arrangements related to security, logistics, protocol, medical and emergency services, venue management, the full-dress rehearsal, event execution and post-event coordination.
He directed the Roads and Buildings Department to arrange tentage, seating, the stage and LED screens, while the Power Development Department was asked to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply with generator backup and illumination of important government buildings.
The Jal Shakti Department was instructed to provide adequate drinking water and install RO units at the venue. The Floriculture Department was tasked with floral decorations, while police were asked to facilitate flower-petal showers through drones during the celebrations.
The Srinagar Municipal Corporation was directed to ensure sanitation, toilet facilities and dewatering arrangements in case of rain. Police were also instructed to put in place comprehensive security arrangements.
The Information Department was asked to install a synchronised public address system in coordination with the Roads and Buildings Department and police, besides putting up hoardings.
Garg also directed the Departments of Culture, Youth Services and Sports, and the J&K Sports Council to prepare cultural programmes, while schools, colleges and the Information Department were asked to organise quiz and singing competitions as part of the celebrations. Contingents from police, security agencies, NCC, schools and colleges will also participate in the event.
The Fire and Emergency Services Department was instructed to deploy fire tenders and maintain emergency preparedness, while the Hospitality and Protocol Department was asked to make arrangements for refreshments and other protocol requirements.
The Divisional Commissioner also directed deputy commissioners to make similar arrangements in their respective districts to ensure Independence Day is celebrated with “patriotic fervour, enthusiasm and dignity” across Kashmir.
During the meeting, IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi stressed adherence to the prescribed protocol for flag-hoisting ceremonies and directed officers to deploy nodal officers and sensitise participants and dignitaries about the established procedures, the statement said.
