The stage is set for Kashmir to host its first-ever international cycling race as the authorities here have completed all the arrangements for the mega-event to be held on Tuesday.
As many as 120 cyclists of international repute are expected to take part in the second leg of 'Tour De India' here. The Kashmir leg of the race will have seven 26-kilometre laps -- a total distance of 168 kms, organisers of the event said.
The race will be held on the banks of world famous Dal Lake and will be telecast live. Twenty international media channels are expected to cover the event, they said.
The race will start from Royal Springs Golf Course to Kashmir University via Foreshore Road and back to Hotel Lalit Grand Palace.
The race is being held in three cities of the country.
The first leg of the race was held today in Mumbai while the third and final leg will be held on December 9 at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida.
Reputed teams like Astana and Lotto have confirmed their participation in the event.
The state government is hopeful about showcasing the beauty of Kashmir before the world during the race.
Meanwhile, traffic authorities have asked people living along the route of the cycling race to travel early towards Srinagar city before the commencement of the race.
"All type of vehicular movement going towards Nishat, Shalimar and Harwan will be diverted at Badyari towards Khanyar-Rainawari while the traffic coming towards Srinagar from Harwan-Shalimar will be diverted towards Tailbal. Besides traffic coming from Ganderbal towards Srinagar will be diverted at Zakoora crossing," an official of the traffic department said.
He said there shall be complete restrictions on traffic movement along Gupkar, Boulevard and Foreshore roads during the race hours.