SHILLONG: The football frenzy begins in Shillong as the capital city of Meghalaya is all set for the grand opening of the 133rd Durand Cup today.
The city is abuzz with excitement as Shillong Lajong FC will take on Nepal’s Tribhuvan Army FC in the Group F opener at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Polo at 4 pm.
The event will be preceded by a dazzling opening ceremony featuring Air Force displays and cultural performances.
In view of the opening ceremony of the Durand Cup, the Meghalaya government has arranged 18 public buses to operate through local areas.
These buses will run on a first-come, first-served basis. While match-day tickets are required, the ride is free of cost.
Passengers will have to present valid match-day tickets to board the buses, with each ticket admitting only one person.
Children will also require entry tickets. The buses will provide return trips after the match from designated parking spots.
The authorities have encouraged carpooling, public transportation use, or walking to ease traffic congestion.
The bus routes will cover 16 different paths, connecting areas such as Lad Smit, Madanrting, Nongthymmai, Laban, Upper Shillong, Mawiong, Mawlai, Mawpat, NEIGRIHMS, Nongrah, and Rynjah to the stadium vicinity.
The buses will depart at 11 am to transport passengers and stadium gates will open for public at 12:30 pm.
For the first time, Shillong will host six matches of this historic football tournament.
