Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today chaired a high-level meeting to review preparations for the upcoming 79th Independence Day celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, ADGPs, IGPs, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, Directors of Information, School Education, and Health, along with representatives from various security agencies.
The Chief Secretary took stock of venue selection in Srinagar, Jammu, and other districts. He emphasized the importance of cultural performances, directing divisional committees to select impactful items with a preference for student participation to promote youth involvement.
Dulloo highlighted the need for seamless traffic and foolproof security arrangements to ensure smooth access for participants. Given the intense heatwave, he urged district administrations to make special provisions for the safety and comfort of the public, especially students.
He instructed officials to ensure proper sanitation, uninterrupted power supply, and availability of drinking water at all venues. Invitations must be sent in advance to all dignitaries and prominent citizens, he said.
The Chief Secretary also directed that Independence Day events should be held at the Panchayat level to promote wide public engagement. Public Address Systems (PAS) must be installed and tested well ahead of the full-dress rehearsals, with backup systems in place.
Dulloo called for the illumination of government offices, major bridges, and iconic public structures across the UT to mark the national celebration.
It was revealed that contingents from J&K Police, Armed Police, CRPF, BSF, Lady Police, IRP, Fire & Emergency Services, NCC, and various schools will participate in the main events in Srinagar and Jammu.
Preparations regarding sanitation, medical aid, water, and power supply are being finalized, and full-dress rehearsals are scheduled for August 13. The main celebrations will take place on August 15.