Punjab CM makes key announcement, venue of Republic day shifted

| Updated: 08 January, 2024 3:37 pm IST

NEW DELHI: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann made key announcements on Saturday regarding the Republic day celebrations on January 26. Mann said that the Republic Day parade across the state will not take place on any ground with synthetic tracks to prevent potential damage to sporting infrastructure.

Mann clarified that for the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, parades would exclusively be organised on grounds or stadiums lacking synthetic athletic tracks. He emphasised that the parade involves multiple tableaus and cultural events showcasing the state and country’s rich heritage. Mann highlighted that the movement of vehicles and machinery during the parade poses a risk of damaging the tracks.

Concerned about the inconvenience caused to athletes due to track damage, the CM underscored the unjust disruptions to players. To mitigate these concerns, the state government has consciously decided against conducting the Republic Day parade in stadiums featuring synthetic tracks, aiming to safeguard the interests of sportspeople.

The Punjab CM took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the news, he said, “The Republic Day parade scheduled for January 26 in Ludhiana will take place at PAU ground. We have recently installed a new synthetic track at Ludhiana Stadium and we do not want it to be damaged during the parade. Across Punjab, no parade will be held on grounds with synthetic tracks. This directive has been issued.”

Mann asserted that this decision aligns with the state’s commitment to promoting sports activities. Consequently, the Republic Day function initially planned in Ludhiana will now take place at Punjab Agricultural University. The AAP leader emphasised the government’s dedication to preserving sporting infrastructure and ensuring the welfare of athletes.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding the state’s prestigious heritage for future generations, Mann reiterated that these functions would be conducted in line with this ethos, prioritising both sports promotion and infrastructure preservation.

Also Read Story

Start investigating with opposition-ruled states, but put Adani in jail: Rahul Gandhi

LOP Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of shielding Adani amid US bribery charges

Maharashtra records low voter turnout amid heated polling day drama  

Zoya Akhtar, Kangana Ranaut, Subhash Ghai, and more Shine at Maharashtra Polls 2024