Thousands throng RK Beach for International City Parade
RK Beach turned into a lively hub on Friday as thousands gathered for the International City Parade, a key highlight of the International Fleet Review (IFR) and MILAN events. Even on a weekday, the turnout exceeded expectations. Residents lined Beach Road hours before the programme began.
People of all ages arrived through access points such as Park Hotel Junction, Collectorate, and Novotel Down. Many who had watched the rehearsals earlier returned to enjoy the spectacle again from vantage points along the beachfront.
Spectator enclosures filled quickly. The stretch near Kali Mata Temple drew the largest crowds, with visitors taking up almost every available space. Younger attendees captured photos and videos on their phones. Several elderly spectators used binoculars to follow the aerial displays.
Governor S. Abdul Nazeer inaugurated the event as the chief guest. Senior officials from the Eastern Naval Command accompanied him. The air show soon became one of the evening’s main attractions. Chetak and ALH helicopters performed precision manoeuvres. Dornier patrol aircraft and Albatross aircraft followed with impressive displays.
The flypast by Chetak helicopters and the Kestrel formation by ALH helicopters drew loud cheers. Kamov-28 and MH-60R Seahawk helicopters added to the excitement. MiG fighter jets roared across the skyline, prompting sustained applause. Many spectators tried to record the high-speed passes. The aerial segment concluded with an amphibious demonstration on the beach.
NCC cadets and students opened the parade with energetic performances. Folk artists presented colourful cultural programmes. Organisers installed more than 30 LED screens to ensure clear visibility for the large audience. Naval contingents from several countries then marched along the seafront, earning enthusiastic applause.
Meanwhile, traffic snarls hit Jagadamba Junction, Siripuram, Collectorate, and Park Hotel Junction. Police enforced tight security and regulated vehicle movement. Authorities also operated special buses to handle the rush of visitors.