SRINAGAR: The inaugural edition of the T20 Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) is set to begin on 25 October at Srinagar’s Bakhshi Stadium, featuring international, national, and local cricket players. The high-profile tournament will see eight teams competing over a fortnight, with crowds from across Jammu Kashmir expected to fill the stands.
In preparation for the event, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, chaired a high-level meeting on Tuesday to review arrangements and ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament. Officers from various departments attended the meeting to assess the readiness of facilities and logistics for the players and spectators.
Officials informed that between 25,000 and 30,000 spectators are expected to attend matches daily. To facilitate crowd management, the Divisional Commissioner directed organisers to prioritise online ticket booking and maintain coordination with security agencies regarding the arrival, accommodation, and movement of players.
Garg instructed police and security officials to deploy sufficient personnel for organised crowd control and directed the District Magistrate Srinagar to depute magistrates for on-ground coordination. He emphasised strict adherence to timelines for spectator entry and match conclusion.
Further, organisers were asked to seek formal permission for drone coverage and ensure clear communication on food items permitted inside the venue. Departments of Jal Shakti and Power Development (PDD) were directed to guarantee uninterrupted water and electricity supply, while the Health Department was tasked with deploying fully equipped ambulances and medical staff on rotation during matches.
The Divisional Commissioner also instructed the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Sports Council, and event organisers to maintain continuous cleanliness drives in and around the venue. Additionally, fire tenders will be stationed near the stadium, and designated parking areas will be identified to manage traffic flow efficiently.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Srinagar administration, Sports Council, SMC, Information Department, Traffic Police, Airport Authority, Tourism, Health, Fire Services, and other concerned departments.
The IHPL marks a significant milestone in Kashmir’s sporting calendar, with organisers hopeful it will promote the region as an emerging cricketing destination.
