Fakir Mohan University was a hive of activity on Sunday as security forces and local officials ran through a full-scale dress rehearsal for President Droupadi Murmu’s upcoming visit on February 3. The drill included everything from helicopter landings to carcade maneuvers, all designed to ensure there are no hiccups when the President arrives on campus.
The highlight of the afternoon was an Indian Air Force helicopter performing a test landing at the university’s designated helipad. The chopper hovered over the campus for several minutes before touching down, staying on the ground for a quick five-minute coordination check, and then taking off again. Security officials mentioned that when the President actually arrives, she will be travelling in a three-chopper formation, with her helicopter positioned securely in the middle.
On the ground, the presidential convoy also practiced its route through the university to fine-tune the timing and security of the carcade. These rehearsals are expected to continue through the end of the day, with one final "dry run" scheduled for tomorrow to iron out any remaining details.
According to the official itinerary, President Murmu has a busy day ahead on Tuesday. She’ll start her trip in Jajpur to offer prayers at the Maa Biraja temple before flying into the university at around 12:45 pm. After a scheduled lunch, she is set to head straight into the main event: attending the university's convocation ceremony and officially inaugurating a brand-new auditorium.
With the campus currently under a heavy security blanket, authorities say they are leaving nothing to chance for what is expected to be a very high-profile visit.
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