Independence: Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium to host I-Day function after 5 years | India News

SRINAGAR: The J&K administration has decided to hold the Independence Day parade at the historic Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar after five years.

The stadium was closed for such functions in 2018 due to security reasons and since then, the administration held all government events at Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Sonwar area of the city.
This year, however, the main I-day function will take place at Bakshi Stadium, renovated at a cost of Rs 50 crore and reopened by LG Manoj Sinha on August 5.

According to V K Bidhuri, divisional commissioner (DC), Kashmir, this is to ensure larger public participation, as Bakshi Stadium has a capacity of 45,000 while the cricket stadium can host only 5,000 people.
The DC said there would be no restrictions on entry into the stadium on Tuesday and no pass would be required. Unlike the past, there will be no traffic curbs on the roads leading to the venue and no suspension of mobile internet.
Vijay Kumar, ADGP (Kashmir), said a three-tier security grid had been put in place for the smooth conduct of I-day function, with drone surveillance and aerial recce being part of the security measures. CRPF and special operations group of Jammu and Kashmir Police have intensified surveillance and patrolling. Checkpoints and barricades have been set up at strategic locations. CRPF inspector general, Srinagar, Ajay Kumar Yadav, said the force was fully prepared and alert to tackle any situation.
Contingents of Army, police, paramilitary forces, home guard and civil defence and schoolchildren will take part in the parade. LG Sinha will hoist the national flag and take the salute at the march past.
The administration held tricolour hoisting functions ahead of the I-day at many spots across Srinagar, with LG Sinha hoisting the national flag at the historic Lal Chowk.