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Srinagar, Oct 25 (IANS) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting to review the preparations for the upcoming second edition of the Kashmir Marathon being organized by the Tourism Department in Srinagar on November 2.
The Chief Secretary described this prestigious event as a valuable opportunity to promote tourism and sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that the inaugural edition had received an overwhelming response and had set new standards for sports events in the region.
He said that the participation of runners from India and abroad will further strengthen the image of Kashmir as a major destination for leisure, adventure and sports tourism.
Emphasizing on seamless coordination among all departments, he directed the concerned to ensure foolproof arrangements for the visiting athletes and participants covering aspects such as transportation, accommodation, medical care, security, hygiene and event management.
The Chief Secretary urged the Traffic Department to take all necessary measures to secure the marathon routes on the day of the event. He stressed the need for a comprehensive traffic management plan, including appropriate diversion and issuance of advance travel advisories, to ensure safety and convenience of passengers.
He stressed the need to provide all participants with a memorable experience that showcases Kashmir’s hospitality and growing potential in hosting large-scale international events.
During the meeting Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism informed that many renowned national and international athletes are expected to participate in this year’s edition.
He further said that the event will also serve as a platform to showcase local arts, crafts and culture with dedicated stalls promoting handicrafts and handloom products of Jammu and Kashmir.
Director, Tourism Kashmir presented a detailed overview of the operational plan, covering aspects of participant registration, route management, volunteer deployment and publicity campaign.
He elaborated that the marathon will have two main race categories, full marathon (42 km) and half marathon (21 km), open to both men and women, like the first edition of the sport.
The routes will pass through Srinagar’s most iconic and picturesque locations, including Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens and Chinar-lined boulevards, offering runners an inspiring blend of athletic challenge and natural beauty.
The meeting was informed that the Full Marathon (42 km) will take the participants through a picturesque circuit showcasing the natural and cultural splendor of Srinagar, while the Half Marathon (21 km) will provide the runners with an equally enriching experience that combines endurance with breathtaking views of the valley.
Adding to the grandeur of the event, Kashmir Marathon 2025 features an impressive prize pool, with ample prizes for the winners in both the full and half marathon categories.
For the full marathon, the overall category prizes include Rs 25,00,000 for 1st place, Rs 20,00,000 for 2nd place, Rs 18,00,000 for 3rd, Rs 15,00,000 for 4th and Rs 12,00,000 for 5th.
In the respective age-group categories (18-35 years, 36-50 years and 50+ experienced), cash prizes of Rs 1,00,000, Rs 75,000 and Rs 50,000 will be awarded for first, second and third positions respectively.
For the half marathon, the overall category winners will get Rs 15,00,000, Rs 12,00,000, Rs 9,00,000, Rs 6,00,000 and Rs 3,00,000 for the top five positions respectively, while the age group winners will get Rs 75,000, Rs 50,000 and Rs 25,000 for the first position respectively. Second and third place for both male and female participants respectively.
With its generous prizes, stunning routes and vibrant community participation, Kashmir Marathon 2025 is set to emerge as a premier sporting event showcasing the spirit, hospitality and tourism potential of the region.
Expressing optimism about the event, the Chief Secretary remarked that the Kashmir Marathon will not only promote fitness and sports skills among the youth but will also serve as a major tourism promotion programme, attracting tourists from all over the world to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the valley.
–IANS
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