Chief Secretary Reviews 80th Independence Day Preparations, Calls for Flawless Celebrations Across J&K
SRINAGAR, July 24: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Friday chaired a high-level meeting of senior civil administration, police and security officials to review preparations for the 80th Independence Day celebrations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, directing all departments to ensure seamless coordination and timely completion of arrangements.
The meeting was attended by Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, ADGPs, IGPs, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, the Director Information, Directors of School Education and Health Services for Jammu and Kashmir, senior civil and police officers, and representatives of various security agencies.
Reviewing preparations for the main Independence Day functions in Srinagar and Jammu, as well as celebrations at the district, sub-division, tehsil, block and Panchayat levels, the Chief Secretary stressed the importance of meticulous planning to ensure smooth participation of dignitaries, students and the general public.
Dulloo directed all departments to complete arrangements well in advance and emphasised close coordination among agencies for the successful conduct of the national event.
He called for cultural programmes that reflect Jammu and Kashmir's rich heritage and composite culture, while encouraging greater participation of school students and youth to foster patriotism and national pride.
The Chief Secretary instructed the Police and Traffic authorities to put in place comprehensive security measures and efficient traffic management plans around all venues to facilitate hassle-free movement of participants and visitors.
Considering the prevailing weather conditions, he directed the concerned departments to ensure adequate drinking water, shaded seating, medical facilities and emergency response services, particularly for schoolchildren and other participants.
Dulloo also stressed the need to maintain high standards of sanitation, uninterrupted power supply, proper illumination and beautification of celebration venues, while ensuring that all essential public utilities remain fully operational.
The Information Department was asked to install and thoroughly test the Public Address System (PAS) and other audio-visual equipment ahead of the full-dress rehearsal, with adequate backup arrangements to prevent any disruption.
He further directed all Heads of Departments, Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners to illuminate major government buildings, offices, bridges and other iconic public infrastructure to mark the 80th Independence Day celebrations.
District administrations were instructed to issue invitations well in advance to public representatives, freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, families of martyrs, eminent citizens and other distinguished guests to ensure their participation in the celebrations.
Officials informed the meeting that contingents of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Armed Police, CRPF, BSF, IRP, Lady Police, Fire and Emergency Services, NCC, NSS and students from educational institutions would participate in the ceremonial parades and cultural programmes.
The meeting also reviewed arrangements related to sanitation, healthcare, drinking water, electricity, transport, seating, parking, emergency services and other logistical requirements. Officers assured the Chief Secretary that all preparations would be completed on schedule and monitored regularly.
It was also informed that full-dress rehearsals for the Independence Day celebrations would be conducted ahead of August 15 to ensure the smooth execution of all ceremonial events across the Union Territory. ANB
