Srinagar, Nov 2, KNT: The second edition of the Kashmir Marathon-2025 commenced in Srinagar on Sunday, drawing over 1,500 runners from both domestic and international circuits. The event, hailed by organizers as a significant boost to sports tourism and a symbol of the region’s resilience, also triggered severe civic inconvenience due to widespread road closures across the city.
As part of the marathon arrangements, traffic authorities enforced major restrictions from early morning, causing disruption to public movement. Key arterial routes, including Residency Road, M.A. Road, Boulevard, Foreshore Road, River Front Raj Bagh Road and Gupkar Road, remained closed to vehicular traffic from 5:00 AM.
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The restrictions led to severe difficulties for locals, despite prior traffic advisories and diversion routes issued by the police.
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Adding to the public distress, several aspirants appearing for the JKSSB Junior Engineer (Civil) examination scheduled for the same day expressed concern over reaching their centers on time.
Authorities acknowledged the inconvenience but defended the restrictions, stating that they were essential for ensuring the safety and smooth conduct of the marathon. Police officials appealed to the public for cooperation, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during such large-scale events.
The marathon, which attracted athletes from 11 foreign countries and 27 Indian states, provides significant global visibility for Kashmir. Officials view the event as a testament to the region’s increasing normalcy and a powerful statement that its spirit remains “unbreakable” in the face of adversity.[KNT]
