Srinagar, Oct 22 More than 1,800 runners, including 73 foreign athletes from 12 countries, have registered for the upcoming Kashmir Marathon, while the total number of participants is expected to cross 2,000, Director Tourism Kashmir Sajad Qamar said on Thursday.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Marathon Expo, Qamar said preparations for the event were in their final stage and all necessary arrangements were being made in coordination with different government departments.
“So far, we have received around 1,807 online registrations, including 73 foreign athletes from 12 countries. We expect the total number of participants to cross 2,000 this year,” he said.
Qamar said the expo, inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, featured 20 stalls, while on-spot registration began after 4 pm to allow runners who had missed online registration to participate.
He said the Tourism Department was working closely with other departments to ensure the smooth conduct of the marathon.
Highlighting the importance of the event for Kashmir’s tourism sector, Qamar said international sporting events could help attract visitors and strengthen the Valley’s image as a tourist destination.
“Such events send a message to the outside world that Kashmir is peaceful and safe for visitors. When athletes from different countries come here and participate, it creates a positive impression internationally,” he said.
The Director Tourism said the marathon would also benefit the local economy, particularly hotels, transport operators and other service providers associated with tourism.
He said the government had decided to make the Kashmir Marathon an annual event to promote the Valley as an international tourist destination.
“These events should take place regularly. That is why the government has included the Kashmir Marathon in its annual calendar so that Kashmir can be promoted internationally,” Qamar said. (KNS)
