The serene and picturesque environs of Dal Lake in Kashmir were infused with the exhilarating sound of roaring engines as the Valley played host to its inaugural Formula-4 car racing event. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills, sleek racing cars zipped along the Boulevard road, leaving behind trails of excitement on March 18. This historic occasion not only marked a significant milestone in Kashmir‘s sporting landscape but also underscored the region’s progression towards becoming a hub for international events.
The Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, lauded the event as a symbol of the Valley’s advancement. He expressed confidence that such initiatives would not only enhance J&k’s global image but also invigorate tourism and bolster the local economy. This sentiment was echoed by Director of Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob, who emphasized the growing status of the region as an adventure tourism destination. Yaqoob highlighted plans to introduce more adrenaline-fueled activities, aiming to not only entertain but also invest in the future of Kashmir’s youth and tourism industry.
This is very heartening to see. It will help further 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! https://t.co/RNSRy4NnZ3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, echoing the sentiments of many, expressed his delight at witnessing the spectacle of the first-ever Formula-4 car show in Srinagar. Modi praised the event for its potential to showcase the unparalleled beauty of J&k to the world. He emphasized India’s vast opportunities for motorsports and positioned Srinagar as a prime location for such events to thrive. Reposting vibrant images from the motorsports show, PM Modi’s endorsement further underscored the significance of the occasion.
Kashmir’s progress
The success of the Formula-4 car racing event has set a precedent, demonstrating Kashmir’s capacity to host impactful international events with the right support and infrastructure. Deputy Director of Tourism, Deeba Khalid, emphasized the historic significance of the event in drawing global attention to J&K and enhancing its tourism prospects. As the engines faded into the evening, the event left an indelible mark on Kashmir’s sporting landscape, paving the way for future thrilling events and solidifying the region’s status as an emerging hub for adventure and tourism.
In collaboration with Formula 4 and the Indian Racing League under the auspices of the Tourism Department, this event not only showcased Kashmir’s potential but also laid the groundwork for further growth and development in the region’s sporting and tourism sectors.
The inaugural Formula-4 car racing extravaganza served as a testament to Kashmir’s resilience, spirit, and determination to thrive in the face of challenges, promising a bright and dynamic future for the Valley and its people.
