Asif Malik
Srinagar, Oct 25 (KNS) : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday flagged off the third edition of the Kashmir International Marathon, bringing together runners from across India and abroad as the administration seeks to use sporting events to promote tourism and showcase the Valley’s natural and cultural heritage.
Details available with News Agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), the marathon has recorded 1,807 online registrations, including 1,221 local participants, 513 runners from other parts of the country and 73 foreign athletes representing 12 countries. The Tourism Department expects participation to cross 2,000.
The full marathon, covering 42.195 km, was scheduled to start at 6.30 am, followed by the 21-km half marathon at 7.45 am.
The routes pass through some of Srinagar’s prominent locations, including stretches along Dal Lake, Boulevard Road and Nishat Garden. Organisers said the event aims to become an annual fixture on the sporting calendar, offering local athletes an opportunity to compete alongside national and international runners.
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A separate prize category for runners from Jammu and Kashmir has been introduced to encourage local participation and give regional athletes greater opportunities to showcase their talent.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated the Marathon Expo, which featured 20 stalls showcasing local handicrafts, handlooms, agricultural produce and other products. The expo provided local businesses a platform to display their products to participants and visitors.
Preparations included road repairs, barricading and other arrangements along the marathon route. The Srinagar Traffic Police announced restrictions and diversions to facilitate the event, advising commuters to plan their journeys in advance and follow traffic advisories.
Emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire tenders, were given priority during the restrictions. The traffic police also issued a helpline number, 103, for assistance.
The marathon is part of efforts to promote Kashmir as a destination for sporting events while creating opportunities for local athletes and businesses. (KNS)
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