CS Dulloo Reviews Venue, Cultural Line-Up and Security for Independence Day

SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting to review preparations for the 79th Independence Day celebrations to be held across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on August 15. The meeting, attended by senior officials from civil administration, police, education, health, and other departments, focused on ensuring a seamless, secure, and inclusive national celebration.

Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, Additional Director Generals of Police (ADGPs), Inspectors General of Police (IGPs), Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, and heads of concerned departments participated in the meeting.

The Chief Secretary reviewed the selection of main venues in Srinagar, Jammu, and other districts and called for finalising cultural performances with a preference for student participation to foster youth engagement. He emphasised high-impact performances that reflect the cultural vibrancy of the region.

Dulloo directed that fool-proof security and traffic arrangements be put in place to ensure hassle-free access for participants and invitees. He also instructed district administrations to make provisions for public comfort, particularly in light of the prevailing heatwave, and to prioritise the safety of schoolchildren taking part in the celebrations.

Public convenience at the venues, including power supply, drinking water, sanitation, and medical aid, must be ensured, the Chief Secretary said, while urging that formal invitations be sent to dignitaries and citizens well in advance.

District and divisional authorities were asked to oversee arrangements at all levels, including Panchayats, to ensure widespread and dignified celebrations throughout the UT.

The Information Department was directed to install and test public address systems ahead of the full-dress rehearsal, scheduled for August 13. Dulloo also stressed the need for adequate backups to handle any technical issues during the event.

Furthermore, he asked department heads and Deputy Commissioners to ensure the illumination of major public buildings, bridges, and iconic landmarks to mark the national occasion.

It was revealed that contingents from J&K Police, Armed Police, CRPF, BSF, Lady Police, IRP, Fire and Emergency Services, NCC, and local schools would participate in the main functions at Srinagar and Jammu.

The meeting also discussed in detail arrangements related to sanitation, medical services, water supply, and electricity. Respective departments were instructed to finalise preparations in the coming days.

The 79th Independence Day will be observed across all districts and sub-divisions of Jammu and Kashmir on August 15, with full-dress rehearsals planned for August 13.