By Dr. Dinesh, Dental Surgeon & Freelance Journalist
Few cities in India are blessed with a coastline as scenic as that of Srivijayapuram. The stretch from Marina Park to Corbyn’s Cove, measuring approximately 7 kilometres, offers uninterrupted views of the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal, gentle sea breezes, lush greenery and one of the most picturesque roads in the country. It is an asset that deserves to be celebrated not only as a tourist attraction but also as a public space that promotes health, fitness and community well-being.
Imagine this scenic route transformed every Sunday morning into a vibrant corridor of fitness and community spirit. A weekly Sunday Jogging on walking track event could become one of the signature attractions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, drawing residents and visitors alike. Unlike competitive marathons, the event should celebrate participation rather than speed. It would not matter who reaches the finish line first; what matters is that every participant completes the distance according to his or her own stamina and comfort.
Children, students, young professionals, families, senior citizens and tourists could all become part of this weekly celebration of healthy living. Some may jog the entire route, while others may prefer a brisk walk. Participants should be encouraged to wear proper jogging shoes, remain well hydrated and follow basic fitness precautions. The emphasis should remain on physical activity, safety, social interaction and mental well-being rather than competition.
To ensure a safe and professionally managed event, first-aid facilities, trained volunteers and an ambulance, provided either by the government or a private healthcare institution, should be stationed along the route. These arrangements would reassure participants, particularly senior citizens and first-time joggers, making the event inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
The initiative would also reinforce an important social message, a Drug-Free Andaman. Encouraging young people to embrace sports, fitness and outdoor activities is one of the most effective ways of promoting a healthy lifestyle and discouraging substance abuse. Every kilometre covered along this scenic coastal road would symbolise a step towards a healthier future.
The tourism potential is equally significant. Around the world, coastal cities organise community jogging events that attract fitness enthusiasts and visitors. A weekly event against the backdrop of the sparkling sea, the rising sun and swaying coconut palms could become an iconic experience for tourists. It would add a new dimension to the island’s tourism by combining natural beauty with wellness and community participation.
The route itself is an attraction. Beginning at Marina Park, participants would enjoy panoramic sea views while passing the historic Japanese bunkers, scenic viewpoints and the beautiful coastline before reaching Corbyn’s Cove Beach. The journey would be every bit as memorable as the destination.
To build momentum, the event could initially encourage participation from the police, defence personnel, the India Reserve Battalion (IRBn), firefighters and other uniformed services, whose presence would inspire confidence and public participation. As the initiative grows, schools, colleges, youth organisations, NGOs, the Rotary Club of Port Blair, fitness clubs and the general public could actively join, making it a true community movement.
The Andaman and Nicobar Administration should take the lead in coordinating the programme in partnership with sports associations, educational institutions, NGOs and private sponsors. Rather than being a one-time initiative or a year-long campaign, the Sunday Jogging Event should become a permanent weekly feature, continuing throughout the year for many years to come. Different organisations could reserve Sunday slots well in advance through an online booking system or a designated coordinator at the Sports Authority or Netaji Stadium. This would ensure that every Sunday has a committed organiser and that the event continues without interruption.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands already possess the perfect natural setting. What is needed now is a collective vision to transform this remarkable coastal stretch into a symbol of wellness, responsible tourism and community participation. A Sunday Jogging Event on walking track from Marina Park to Corbyn’s Cove can become far more than a fitness programme, it can evolve into a lasting movement that inspires healthier lives, strengthens the campaign for a drug-free Andaman and showcases the islands as a destination where nature, health and community come together every single Sunday.
