The 'Adi Kailash Ultra Marathon 2.0' is set to kick off from Dharchula in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district from October 24 to 26. The district administration has intensified preparations to ensure the event is both successful and safe.
District Magistrate (DM) Ashish Bhatgain visited Gunji to assess the arrangements, holding a meeting with officials from the Indian Army, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and other relevant departments to review preparations.
The District Magistrate instructed all departments to work in coordination and ensure the timely fulfilment of their assigned responsibilities. He emphasised that the safety of the runners participating in a marathon held in a challenging, remote mountainous region must be the top priority. He directed that all necessary arrangements be completed well in advance to prevent any issues during the event.
To safeguard the health and well-being of the participants, medical facilities will be provided along the entire route, with doctors and ambulances stationed accordingly.
Additionally, hydration and snack points will be set up to provide runners with refreshments and water. Relevant departments have been instructed to remain on high alert to provide immediate assistance in the event of an emergency.
To ensure the safety of the marathon route, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has been tasked with clearing debris and stones from the path.
The District Magistrate stressed the importance of maintaining the route's condition so that runners do not encounter any obstacles during the race.
Furthermore, emphasis has been placed on ensuring the quality of accommodation and other basic amenities provided for the runners. Instructions were issued to ensure that all arrangements, including tents, seating, sanitation facilities, and general cleanliness, comply with established standards.
The District Magistrate warned that any negligence at any level would result in action being taken against the concerned officials and staff.
Additionally, a help desk will be set up at Chhiyalekh to provide immediate assistance in case of an emergency; relevant contact numbers will also be released.
The administration's objective is not only to ensure the successful conduct of the marathon but also to promote tourism in the Adi Kailash region and establish a new identity for the area.
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