*Says Road clearance progressing fast; airport, rail services back to normal, all arrangements in place ahead of republic day function*
Srinagar, Jan 24: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Saturday said that weather conditions across the Valley have improved significantly following recent snowfall and high-speed winds, adding that restoration of power supply and road connectivity is progressing at a fast pace, with normalcy expected to be restored by evening.
Ahead of Republic Day celebrations, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, accompanied by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vidhi Kumar Birdi, visited Balidan Stambh at Pratap Park, Srinagar, where they took the salute during the full dress rehearsal and paid floral tributes to the martyrs at Balidan Stamb.
Speaking to reporters, Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg termed the occasion auspicious and said elaborate preparations have been made for the annual Republic Day event.
He said contingents of security forces, school children and various departments have been rehearsing continuously for the past one month to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations.
Garg said despite heavy rain and snowfall witnessed over the past two days, teams worked round-the-clock to prepare the stadium and other venues. He appealed to the people of Srinagar to participate in the Republic Day function as every year and witness the celebrations.
Giving an update on weather-related damage, the Divisional Commissioner said most parts of the Valley, except Srinagar, received snowfall, while wind speeds crossed 150 kmph at some places, leading to damage in certain areas.
He said restoration work was started immediately and power supply is being restored at a rapid pace, with remaining stations expected to be functional by afternoon.
He further said weather conditions have improved significantly since yesterday and that airport and train services have already returned to normal.
Road clearance work is also underway, with about 15,000 kilometres of roads cleared out of the total 20,000 kilometres. The remaining stretches are being cleared with the assistance of NDRF and other agencies.
The Divisional Commissioner said as per the directions of the Chief Minister, the target is to complete restoration and snow clearance work by evening to ensure normalcy across the Valley. (KNC)
