Patna: More than 10,000 runners from across the country are expected to participate in the “Nasha Mukt Bihar” themed Patna Marathon scheduled to take place on March 15. The event is being organised by the Excise, Prohibition and Registration Department in collaboration with the State Bank of India (SBI) to spread awareness about a drug-free society.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Patna divisional commissioner Animesh Kumar Parashar said the marathon is aimed at strengthening public awareness against substance abuse in the state. He added that although the event is being held slightly later than usual this year, authorities have ensured that preparations are well organised to make the event smooth and impactful.
Excise, Prohibition and Registration commissioner Anshul Agarwal said the Patna Marathon has gradually emerged as an important public event in Bihar. According to officials, participants from different parts of India are expected to join the race, which will start and finish at Gandhi Maidan while passing through major routes including Ganga Path and Atal Path, offering runners a view of the city’s riverfront and modern road infrastructure.
The marathon will be held in four categories full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.097 km), 10 km run and 5 km run. Olympic medallist and world-renowned badminton player P. V. Sindhu has been invited as the chief guest to encourage participants and support the campaign promoting a drug-free Bihar.
Authorities said extensive arrangements have been made for the event. Around 20 aid stations will be placed along the route, while entertainment activities will also be organised to keep participants engaged during the run. For medical support, 30 doctors, paramedical staff and 20 physiotherapists will remain on duty throughout the event.
Police and other departments will manage traffic and crowd control, while the municipal corporation will oversee sanitation and street lighting along the route. Traffic movement on the designated roads will remain restricted from 11pm on March 14 until 10am on March 15 to ensure the smooth conduct of the marathon.
Officials said winners will share a total prize pool of Rs 30 lakh, with the prize distribution ceremony scheduled for 6:45am on the day of the event. All participants will also receive refreshments and commemorative medals. The official medal and marathon T-shirt were unveiled during the press conference.
