Varanasi to Host Grand 90-Jet Air Show at Namo Ghat
Experience a grand aerial display of Rafale and Sukhoi jets over Kashi from October 24-26. See the security and VIP arrangements for the event.
The skies over the holy city of Kashi are set to roar with power as Varanasi prepares to host a massive air show from October 24 to 26. In a breathtaking display of aerial prowess, approximately 90 fighter jets are scheduled to perform over the city, turning the spiritual landscape into a high-octane theater of aviation.
A Symphony of Fighter Jets
Spectators can look forward to a ninety-minute daily spectacle featuring some of the world's most advanced military aircraft. The aerial maneuvers will include a diverse lineup of combat machines, such as:
- Rafale
- Sukhoi
- Tejas
- MiG aircraft
To ensure a seamless performance, the jets will take off from both Prayagraj and the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, converging to perform high-speed displays over the Varanasi skyline. While various locations will offer views, Namo Ghat and the Domri area are expected to be prime vantage points for the crowds.
High-Level VIP Attendance
The event is expected to draw the highest echelons of Indian leadership. On October 25, the city anticipates the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The guest list also includes the Governor, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and the heads of the three armed forces. To honor military heritage, retired army chiefs have also been invited to witness the show from a specially constructed VIP gallery.
Ironclad Security and Safety Measures
Given the scale of the event and the high-profile attendees, authorities have implemented a massive security blanket across the city and the riverfront.
Ghat Security and Surveillance
The ghats are being transformed into highly controlled zones. Key security measures include:
- Sniper Deployment: Watch towers equipped with snipers and dedicated surveillance teams will be stationed at every single ghat.
- Commando Presence: Two specialized teams of ATS commandos will be deployed at six strategic locations.
- Strict Screening: All visitors will pass through metal detectors and baggage scanners at the ghats.
Waterfront Restrictions
The safety of the Ganga riverfront is a top priority. During the air show, the operation of all boats and cruises will be strictly prohibited. The water area will remain under constant patrol by the NDRF, water police, and ATS teams to prevent any unauthorized movement.
Logistics and Emergency Preparedness
District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar has confirmed that the city is undergoing rapid preparation. As the water level of the Ganga recedes, authorities are busy cleaning, leveling, and barricading the ghats to accommodate the expected influx of visitors. To manage the crowds, approximately 50 parking sites and 50 temporary police help desks are being established.
In the event of a medical emergency, the administration has ensured a robust response system:
- Hospital Readiness: 200 beds have been reserved across both government and private hospitals.
- Ambulance Network: 38 ambulances will be stationed at strategic points throughout the city for rapid deployment.
Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal noted that special arrangements are being prioritized in the Domri area to handle the crowds expected to gather for the best views. Coordination is currently underway between the traffic, fire, health, railway, NDRF, and SDRF departments to ensure the three-day event proceeds without incident.