August 15 not to be celebrated at Bakshi Stadium

Srinagar, July 31: Delay in repairing Bakshi Stadium here has forced the authorities to shift the traditional venue for August-15 celebrations.

The work on upgrading the stadium was started in 2017 by the National Projects Construction Corporation.

However, so far very little work has been completed, forcing the state to, for the first time, not to celebrate August 15 at Bakshi Stadium.

Secretary State Sports Council, Rajnish Kumar, said the stadium was not fit to host August 15 function.

An official said the decision to change the venue was taken at a meeting chaired by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir.

“The August 15 main function will be held at the SK Stadium Sonawar,” the official, who was a part of the meeting, said.

Earlier this year, January 26 function was also held at the SK Cricket Stadium Sonawar for the same reason.

A police official said security would be strengthened at Lal Chowk, Rajbagh, Dal Gate, and Sonawar areas as the SK Cricket Stadium is new venue.

“The security agencies will take extra measures this time in view change in venue and recent attacks,” a police official said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Tuesday convened a meeting to review the arrangements August 15 celebrations.

The meeting discussed various aspects of the function including arrangements put in place at the new venue, security, march past parade, cultural programmes, seating, parking besides arrangements for rehearsals including transportation and accommodation for participants.

The DC issued specific instructions to all concerned departments to ensure that all arrangements are made well in advance. He said the PWD and PDD have particularly important role to play given the new venue of the main function this year and asked them to ensure all necessary arrangements are made for smooth conduct of the programme.