Vice President – Radhakrishnan Begins Two-Day Kashmir Visit
Vice President – Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan will begin his first official tour of the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday evening, marking his maiden visit to the Union Territory since assuming office.
Arrival in Srinagar and Official Reception
According to officials, the Vice President is scheduled to arrive at Srinagar International Airport later in the day and proceed to the government residence at Lok Bhawan in the Chashma Shahi area, where he will stay overnight.
He will be formally received by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah upon his arrival in the city.
This visit is being closely coordinated by the local administration, given its significance as the Vice President’s first trip to the region in his current role.
Chief Guest at Kashmir University Convocation
On Thursday, the Vice President will attend the 21st convocation ceremony of the University of Kashmir at its Hazratbal campus. He will serve as the chief guest at the academic event, which is expected to draw graduating students, faculty members, and senior officials.
The Lieutenant Governor functions as the Chancellor of the university, while the Chief Minister holds the position of Pro-Chancellor, in accordance with the institution’s administrative structure.
University authorities have made extensive preparations to ensure the smooth conduct of the ceremony, which marks an important milestone for students completing their academic programmes.
Heightened Security Across Srinagar
Security arrangements have been intensified across Srinagar ahead of the Vice President’s arrival. Law enforcement agencies conducted a comprehensive dry run along the routes designated for his movement to assess readiness and eliminate potential vulnerabilities.
Temporary checkpoints have been established at key locations throughout the city. Vehicles entering certain zones are being checked, and occupants are subject to frisking as part of precautionary measures. Officials said these steps are aimed at ensuring seamless security during the high-profile visit.
Senior police officials have also reviewed arrangements. Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) V.K. Virdi chaired a detailed meeting to evaluate deployment plans and coordination among different security units.
Traffic Advisory and Route Diversions
The Traffic Department has issued a detailed advisory outlining diversions and restrictions to facilitate the Vice President’s movement. Authorities have urged residents to adhere strictly to the alternate routes to prevent congestion and ensure the unhindered passage of the VVIP convoy.
On Thursday, traffic movement towards Nishat, Shalimar, Harwan and nearby areas via Badyari Chowk and Gupkar will not be permitted during specified hours. Similarly, vehicles travelling from Ram Munshibagh towards Hotel Grand Palace will be diverted through Dalgate, Sangermal and Ikhwan Chowk.
Officials further stated that vehicular movement will be restricted along the Dalgate, Khayam, Khanyar, Rainawari, Saidkadal and Hazratbal stretch during the designated period. Commuters travelling from Harwan, Shalimar, Nishat, Ganderbal and adjoining localities towards Lal Chowk have been advised to use the Burzahama route via Chandpora, Tailbal, Zakoora, Malbagh, Illahibagh and 90 Feet Road.
Those heading in the opposite direction—from Dalgate and Lal Chowk towards Harwan, Shalimar and Nishat—have been directed to travel through Sangermal, Ikhwan Chowk, Nowhatta, 90 Feet Road and Malbagh.
Passengers travelling to Srinagar Airport from Harwan, Shalimar and Nishat will be allowed to move through Burzahama, Chandpora, Tailbal, Zakoora, Malbagh, Illahibagh and 90 Feet Road. Vehicles coming from Panthachowk and Pandrethan towards R M Bagh will be routed via Peaks Motors Nowgam and adjoining roads.
Authorities have appealed to the public for cooperation during the visit. Citizens requiring assistance or clarification regarding traffic restrictions have been advised to contact the Traffic Police Control Room at 103.
The Vice President’s visit is expected to conclude after the convocation programme on Thursday, following which he will depart from Srinagar.