MUZAFFARGARH: More than 100 racers are set to compete in the 9th Thal Desert Jeep Rally, with arrangements completed by the district administration, including the midpoint at Tehsil Chobara.

The four-day event will take place from Nov 7 to 10.

Regional Police Officer (RPO) retired Capt Sajjad Hassan and Commissioner Dera, Nasir Mahmood Bashir, recently inspected rally points and ordered final preparations. This year, three districts -- Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu and Layyah -- are hosting the event on an international level.

Deputy Commissioner Quratul Ain has been actively promoting the rally, which will culminate in a closing ceremony and awards distribution at Faisal Stadium.

Registration, inspection and tagging of vehicles will occur on the first day (Nov 7). The second day (Nov 8) will feature qualifying rounds, followed by stock category competitions on Nov 9. The final day (Nov 10) will see competitions in the pre-paired, women’s, and bike categories.

A challenging 180-km track is being developed across Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu and Layyah, and, for the first time, foreign drivers will participate, with over 100 male and female competitors across 13 categories.

New additions include the Buggy category, as well as a food street, music night and dedicated security measures for families and international participants.

The event will showcase local culture with food stalls, regional decor, camel and horse dances, javelin throwing, kabaddi, stage performances, fireworks, and musical nights. The district administrations will declare a local holiday, with over 1,000 police personnel providing security.

Published in Dawn, October 30th, 2024