Comprehensive Safety Measures for Delhi Half Marathon 2026
Preparations for the Delhi Half Marathon 2026
In anticipation of the Delhi Half Marathon 2026, which will see over 41,000 participants in both physical and virtual formats, extensive safety protocols have been established. Scheduled for Sunday, October 18, the event is organized by Procam International, known for promoting the World Athletics Gold Label Road Race.
Key figures at the event's announcement included Dr. Sameer Gupta, a Senior Interventional Cardiologist and Co-Medical Director for the marathon, alongside Dr. Sonia Lal Gupta, a Senior Neurologist, and Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam International.
Race-Day Safety Arrangements
Procam International prioritizes the safety and comfort of runners, who are the event's primary stakeholders. Comprehensive safety measures will be implemented along the race route and at the finish line to ensure participants' well-being.
Preparations include ongoing planning and coordination with relevant authorities to refine the Half Marathon route and the Open 10K, which will now commence from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at 7:35 am instead of Sansad Marg.
Impact of the Event
Vivek Singh highlighted the significant socio-economic impact of the marathon, estimating it to exceed Rs 400 crore for the Delhi-NCR region. Participants often arrive days in advance, contributing to local businesses and hospitality.
Madhurendra Kumar from the Delhi Police confirmed their commitment to runner safety, with around 200 police personnel and additional traffic officers deployed to ensure smooth operations on race day.
On-Course Facilities
Hydration Partner Bisleri will establish 12 water stations, 9 re-hydration stations, and 3 mist zones along the route. The on-course facilities will include:
- 5 Water Stations
- 7 Hydration Stations
- 2 Origin Stations
- 2 Orange and Salt Stations
- 2 Chikki Stations
- 3 Mist Zones
- 8 Cheering Zones
Volunteers from Run Clubs will assist at these stations, ensuring runners receive the necessary support.
A Red Bull station will also be present to energize participants, along with 12 motivation zones featuring performances from various groups.
Medical Support
Metro Group of Hospitals will provide extensive medical support, including:
- 11 medical stations along the route
- 1 medical base camp with ICU facilities post-finish
- 25 medical spotters and 450 medical staff
- 12 ACLS ambulances and 3 golf carts for emergencies
Dr. Sameer Gupta emphasized that the safety of the 41,000 runners is their utmost priority, with extensive medical arrangements in place.
Sustainability Initiatives
The Delhi Half Marathon aims to be a 100% waste-managed event, having received Bronze-level recognition from World Athletics for its sustainability efforts. Key initiatives include:
- Zero Waste to Landfill through responsible waste management
- Source segregation for different types of waste
- Collaboration with local organizations for sustainable practices
- Digital entry forms to minimize paper usage
- Recycling of PET bottles and food waste composting
Dr. Ankita Rai from the New Delhi Municipal Council noted the event's role in promoting environmental responsibility.
Support from Run Clubs
Twenty-one run clubs will manage various water stations and provide support to runners, with 850 volunteers ready to motivate participants throughout the race.
Metro Services on Race Day
Participants will enjoy free travel on the Delhi Metro on race day, with services starting as early as 3:30 am to accommodate runners. E-rickshaws will also be available for transport to the stadium.
Parking facilities will be provided for participants, with stickers available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Race Timings
| Half Marathon - Elite Men | 5:18 am |
| Half Marathon - Elite Women | 5:20 am |
| Half Marathon & Police Cup | 5:30 am |
| Champions with Disability & Senior Citizens’ Run | 6:30 am |
| Open 10K Run | 7:35 am |
| Corporate Run | 9:00 am |
| Great Delhi Run | 9:05 am |
*All races will start and finish at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Live Telecast
The race will be streamed live on youtube.com/@ProcamInternational starting at 5:00 am, with additional coverage on the official World Athletics YouTube channel.