The serene Dal Lake area in Kashmir was turned into a lively racecourse for the Valley’s first-ever Formula-4 car race on 18 March. According to Rising Kashmir, this exhilarating event took place along the gorgeous Boulevard route, with racing cars flying against the breath taking Zabarwan Hills backdrop, providing spectators with an exciting view.
This historic event not only demonstrated Kashmir’s potential as a location for major international sporting events, but it also represented an important milestone in the region’s ability to convey its modernity and growth. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, hailed the occasion as evidence of the Valley’s progress and expressed hope that such initiatives will boost tourism, improve Kashmir’s reputation, and stimulate the local economy.
Why was the event important for Kashmir?
Raja Yaqoob, Kashmir’s Director of Tourism, emphasised the event’s importance in showcasing the region as an emerging destination for adventure tourism. He highlighted his commitment to bringing additional high-adrenaline activities, saying, “These events serve a dual purpose of providing entertainment while also investing in the future of Kashmir’s youth and tourism sector.”
The success of the inaugural Formula-4 auto racing event demonstrates Kashmir’s ability to organise big events that can help the Valley’s socioeconomic development.
Deeba Khalid, Deputy Director of Tourism, emphasised the event’s historical significance and ability to draw international attention to Kashmir, hence increasing its appeal as a tourist destination. “This event is a milestone for the Valley, demonstrating our capability to organise prominent global events and draw visitors from across the globe,” Khalid remarked.
What Prime Minister have to say?
The Formula 4 car racing event made an indelible mark on Kashmir’s sports culture, laying the groundwork for future high-profile events and confirming the region’s reputation as a developing hub for adventure and tourism. Planned arrangements were made to ensure the safety of the drivers throughout the event, as well as for the audience present, such as ambulances and fire extinguishers.
The monitoring of the event was controlled by drones, as the Prime Minister of India hailed the first-ever event and took to social media to write, “This is very heartening to see. It will help further to showcase the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir. India offers great opportunities for motorsports to thrive and Srinagar is right on top of the places where it can happen.”
The event was a major success, that led to hope amongst the locals as it will open up more career options for motorsport enthusiasts.
