Sports Minister Satish Sharma, MLA Tanvir Sadiq launch jersey

Srinagar, May 13: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, along with MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, on Wednesday unveiled the customised jersey for the upcoming Khyber Run for ShahreKhaas 2026 at SAMCI, Rajbagh, ahead of the much-awaited heritage run scheduled to be held on May 17 in Srinagar’s old city.

The event, as per an official statement, marks the revival of the iconic Run for ShahreKhaas after nearly a decade and is being organised by Fucan Sports. The initiative has generated tremendous enthusiasm among the athletes across Jammu and Kashmir, with registrations closing within just 48 hours of opening.

Around 150 professional athletes from different parts of Kashmir are expected to participate in the 10-kilometre run, which will pass through several historic landmarks of downtown Srinagar before culminating at Islamia College Campus, Hawal.

Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma lauded the organisers for reviving a sporting event that blends fitness with the rich cultural heritage of Srinagar’s old city.

“It is encouraging to see sports activities being organised in downtown Srinagar. Such events play a vital role in promoting fitness, discipline and a healthy lifestyle among the youth while also showcasing the cultural and historical significance of the old city,” maintained the minister.

Satish Sharma said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the government is committed to strengthening the sports ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir and encouraging greater youth participation in sports and fitness activities.

“We are working towards building a vibrant sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir by leading through participation and example. Increasing participation in sports and fitness activities is also helping guide youth away from drug abuse and towards positive and constructive pursuits,” he added.

The minister also appreciated the overwhelming response received for the event and said such initiatives reflect the growing enthusiasm among young people towards sports and fitness.

Speaking on the occasion, Tanvir Sadiq termed it a privilege to once again be associated with the event that he had flagged off nearly ten years ago.

“The USP of this run is that it highlights the rich heritage of Srinagar’s old city while promoting a healthy lifestyle. The route starts in my constituency and concludes back in my constituency after covering almost all the historic areas of downtown Srinagar. Last time, I flagged off the event, and this time, I will personally run alongside the athletes,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of fitness in combating drug abuse, Tanvir Sadiq said awareness against the drug menace should remain a continuous effort.

“Events like these, where people lead by example, are the perfect way to encourage the youth towards fitness and help them stay away from drugs,” he added.

Recalling the legacy of the event, he said Run for ShahreKhaas remained a regular feature in Srinagar’s old city until 2015 and expressed hope that future editions would witness even wider participation and additional categories.

The 10-kilometre route will commence from Badamwari Gate and pass through Kathidarwaza, Chattipadshahi, Rainawari, Khanyar, Nowpora, Khayam, Munawarabad, Baba Dawood Khaki Bridge, Baba Demb, Fateh Kadal, Khankah, New Zaina Kadal, Old Zaina Kadal, Budshah Tomb, Saraf Kadal, Bohri Kadal, Malaratta, Nowhatta, Jamia Masjid and Gojwara before concluding at Islamia College Campus, Hawal.

All the participants will receive customised finisher medals, T-shirts and participation certificates.

The event is supported by NITians Career Institute, Paristaan, Adlife and Media Line, while Khyber is the title sponsor.

Among those present on the occasion were J&K SnowShoe Association President Tariq Ghani, General Secretary Dr Altaf-ur-Rehman, Organising Secretary Reyaz Wani, and noted athletes Mushtaq Bhat, Gulzar Khan, Hamid and Suhail Zahid Kota