SRINAGAR: The final event of the “Vitasta Cultural Festival” is all set to commence on Friday at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), located on the picturesque banks of Dal Lake.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the carnival, joined by dignitaries from Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country, including Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Union Minister of State for Culture Meenakshi Lekhi. The occasion is scheduled to be held from June 23 to 25.
Authorities have released a comprehensive traffic advisory to ensure smooth traffic flow during the event and minimize inconvenience to the general public.
Srinagar traffic police, as per the news agency KNO, have issued a fresh advisory outlining traffic restrictions and alternate routes.
On June 23rd, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, traffic movement on Boulevard Road, from Lalit Ghat up to Kral Sangri, will be restricted. Motorists planning to travel towards Nishat, Shalimar, and Harwan are advised to use the alternate road via Dalgate, Rainawari, and Hazratbal instead of the Boulevard Road axis.
Traffic assistance points will be set up at strategic locations, including Badyari, Nehru Park, Gupkar, Kral Sangri, and Nishat, to facilitate smooth movement for those heading towards Nishat, Shalimar, and Harwan, as stated in the advisory.
Similarly, individuals intending to travel from Harwan, Shalimar, Nishat, and other adjacent areas towards Lal Chowk are urged to take the Foreshore-Hazratbal route instead of using the Nishat-Boulevard Road axis. Traffic assistance points will be established at Shalimar, Nishat, Kral Sangri, Habbak Crossing, Duck Park, and Habak Crossing to ensure a hassle-free journey towards Lal Chowk, according to the advisory.
The advisory also highlights the importance of following traffic guidelines for tourists planning to visit Mughal Gardens and other destinations. Visitors coming from Nehru Park are advised to use the Gagribal-Buchwara road and exit via Dalgate. Additionally, a one-way route will be implemented from the UNO office, CD Hospital, up to Nehru Park.
Likewise, motorists hailing from Gulab Bagh, Zakoora, Naseem Bagh, Habbak, and nearby areas are requested to take the Habak-Dargah-Khanyar route to reach Lal Chowk instead of utilizing the Foreshore Road. It is strongly advised to park vehicles only in designated parking areas and refrain from roadside parking, as improper parking may result in vehicle towing.
In case of emergencies, the shortest route will be permitted. Citizens are encouraged to contact the Traffic Police Control Room at 103 for any assistance required.
Moreover, authorities apologize for any inconvenience caused and urge all residents and visitors to cooperate with the traffic advisory to ensure a successful and enjoyable Vitasta Festival while maintaining smooth traffic flow throughout the event, as mentioned in the advisory. (KNO)
