Nandi Hills Monsoon Marathon: Traffic Restrictions on Aug 8-9, Registrations Open

The second edition of the Nandi Hills Monsoon Marathon is set to return on August 8 and 9, drawing fitness enthusiasts, runners, and nature lovers from across Karnataka. The event, organised by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports in coordination with the Chikkaballapur district administration, will commence at 11 a.m. on August 8 from Karahalli Cross and conclude at Nandi Hills at 12 p.m. on August 9.

In view of the marathon, vehicular movement will be restricted on the stretch from Karahalli Cross to Nandi Hills during the event period. The district administration has urged commuters and local residents to plan their travel accordingly and cooperate with traffic police personnel deployed along the route.

According to an official from the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, the marathon is open to all individuals above 18 years of age. Registrations are currently open, and participants can sign up through the official channels. The official also confirmed that medical assistance will be available at regular intervals throughout the course to ensure the safety of all runners.

Last year, approximately 3,000 people from various cities in Karnataka took part in the inaugural edition. This year, the organisers aim to attract more than 3,000 participants, reflecting the growing popularity of the event. The marathon is not only a sporting activity but also an opportunity to promote eco-friendly practices.

In line with the zero-waste and no-plastic policy, the organisers will provide reusable water bottles to all participants. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce plastic waste at public events and encourage sustainable habits among the community. Volunteers will also manage waste segregation at designated points along the route.

The Nandi Hills region, known for its scenic beauty and cool climate during the monsoon season, provides an ideal backdrop for the marathon. The route offers a mix of gentle slopes and challenging stretches, making it suitable for both amateur and seasoned runners. Participants are advised to arrive early on the day of the event and follow all instructions issued by the organisers and traffic authorities.

For those interested in participating, further details regarding registration fees, start time, and route maps are available on the official website of the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports. The department has also set up a helpline for queries related to the marathon and traffic diversions.

Residents and travellers are advised to stay updated with local announcements for any changes to the traffic plan. The district administration has assured that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and safe event for everyone involved.