21.1.14

Somewhere in Mumbai....


After 35 years, the practice of hosting the Republic Day parade will be shifted from Shivaji Park to Marine Drive.
“Shivaji Park witnessed minimal public participation on Republic Day. The venue on Marine Drive will have a 5-km gallery for the public so that they get an unfettered view of the parade,” a senior government administrator said.
“The civic body will instal barricades and erect poles at every stretch to unfurl the tricolour. The flag hoisting will take place between Oberoi Trident and the Air India building by the governor,” he added.
“Earlier in the 1960s, the parade would progress from Hutatma Chowk to Chowpatty and the governor would take a salute at Hutatma Chowk. Later the Republic Day parade was shifted to Shivaji Park due to increasing traffic on Marine Drive,” he said.
Old-timers reminisce the time when a public relations officer in the Sachivalya, Vasant Deshmukh, played a key role in bringing the parade to Shivaji Park.
“The purpose of motivating youngsters to watch a march-past was not served because there were no proper viewing arrangements. Citizens expect the May Day Parade to be also held at Marine Drive,” said Ashok Ravat, a resident of Shivaji Park. Youngsters welcomed the change of venue to Marine Drive.

GRAND SHOW FOR MUMBAIKARS
Air Force and Navy to showcase jets and sailing boats A laser show at the Gateway of India by the state tourism development corporation Fireworks at Nariman Point 34 platoons, 25 army vehicles, 27 floats and vintage cars will feature in the parade Bofors guns, radars and missiles will be on display
A group of hearing impaired students will also take part
Seating arrangements will be made on Marine drive promenade
Final dress rehearsal on January 24

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