The historic city of Varanasi is buzzing with sporting excitement as the Sampurnanand Sport Stadium in Sigra undergoes a vibrant transformation. The venue is being beautifully decorated ahead of the formal inauguration of the 72nd National Volleyball Championship. Adding a unique touch of local culture to the event are the colourful mascots, ‘Nandu’ and ‘Neera’, who have become the centre of attraction.
Mascots Reflect Varanasi's Cultural Heritage
Organisers have chosen the mascots with deep symbolic meaning. ‘Nandu’ represents Nandi, the sacred bull, a revered figure in Hindu mythology closely associated with Lord Shiva, Varanasi's presiding deity. ‘Neera’ symbolises the endangered Ganga river dolphin, an aquatic mammal native to the holy Ganges that flows through the city. These mascots were selected specifically as they are powerful symbols of the local culture and heritage of Varanasi, connecting the national sporting event to its host city's identity.
Officials Inspect Arrangements and Boost Morale
A high-level team of officials recently conducted a thorough review of the preparations at the stadium. The team was led by Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal, Divisional Commissioner S Rajalingam, and District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar. They took detailed stock of all arrangements to ensure a smooth and successful championship. The officials' visit was not limited to inspections; they also took time to interact with athletes. Even during practice matches, they met with players to boost their morale, offering encouragement for the upcoming national-level competition.
Stringent Security Measures Put in Place
Following the inspection, Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal convened a meeting to finalise security protocols. After assessing the venue and its surroundings at Sigra, he issued specific instructions to ensure a safe environment. The key security directives include:
- Erecting strong barricades as per established security standards.
- Conducting mandatory checking with Door Frame Metal Detectors (DFMD) at every entry point.
- Maintaining continuous surveillance through a network of drone cameras and CCTV cameras.
- Deploying an adequate police force, including personnel on rooftop duty at crucial intersections, the venue, and other sensitive locations.
To manage traffic and crowds efficiently, authorities have planned for the use of alternative routes during VIP movement. Crowd control will be managed using ropes in lanes and strategic diversions to prevent disruption and ensure the safety and convenience of all attendees, players, and residents. With these comprehensive preparations, Varanasi is all set to host a memorable and secure National Volleyball Championship.
