Chief Secretary Shri Ashok Barnwal has directed all concerned departments to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the main Army Day Parade in Bhopal on January 15 and the associated events, ensuring that the celebrations reflect valour and pride.
Chief Secretary Shri Barnwal held a detailed review meeting with various departments at the Mantralaya on Wednesday. The Chief Secretary reviewed arrangements at the event venues, including security, traffic management, accommodation, protocol and publicity. He also reviewed the preparations made so far. Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Shri Sanjay Kumar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary, General Administration, Shri Shivashekhar Shukla, and other senior officers were present at the meeting.
Chief Secretary Shri Barnwal directed that the renovation and resurfacing of Kalibari Road near BHEL, along with the shifting of electrical lines, be completed within the stipulated timeframe for the main Army Day Parade event. The Public Works Department assured that all the works would be completed by December 1.
The meeting was informed that arrangements are being planned for approximately 45,000 spectators, including distinguished and special guests, at the main event. These include seating, drinking water, toilets, barricading and security. The Public Works Department, Municipal Corporation, district administration and police have begun coordinated preparations.
Cultural Programme and Air Show
Necessary arrangements are also being made in coordination with Army officials for the Shaurya Sanskriti programme at TT Nagar Stadium and the air show at Bhopal's Upper Lake.
Chief Secretary Shri Barnwal directed the Bhopal Police Commissioner and traffic police to prepare and effectively implement a comprehensive plan for traffic management, parking, entry and exit points, and overall security at these events. He reviewed the designated areas reserved for guests' arrival, seating and other arrangements at all three events and instructed officials to ensure effective implementation.
Directions were also issued to coordinate with the Army to organise the air show on a larger scale.
Convenient Alternative Routes During Rehearsals
Chief Secretary Shri Barnwal reviewed alternative routes for commuters during rehearsals scheduled to begin at the main event venue on December 1. He directed officials to widely publicise the alternative routes, improve road conditions and install necessary signboards to ensure smooth traffic movement.
Shri Barnwal said that cultural programmes should showcase Madhya Pradesh's achievements through effective branding. He also directed that the state's major tourist destinations, including Sanchi, Khajuraho, Bhimbetka and Orchha, along with Simhastha, be prominently showcased.
The Bhopal Collector presented details of the work completed so far and the action plan for the upcoming preparations.
