NewzBangla, Haldia | January 11, 2026The morning mist in the port city was broken not by the usual industrial hum, but by the rhythmic thumping of thousands of sneakers and cheers of “Come on, Haldia!” The busy streets of this i…
NewzBangla, Haldia | January 11, 2026
The morning mist in the port city was broken not by the usual industrial hum, but by the rhythmic thumping of thousands of sneakers and cheers of “Come on, Haldia!” The busy streets of this industrial hub transformed into a vibrant track of endurance and passion on Sunday as the SERVO Haldia Marathon 2026 took center stage.
The event served as the grand finale of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of IndianOil’s Haldia Refinery, marking 50 years of the unit's service to the nation. From seasoned long-distance runners to toddlers participating in the fun run, the city witnessed a spirited celebration of fitness and community spirit.
A Star-Studded Flag-Off
The energy was palpable at the starting line as a phalanx of senior leaders from IndianOil and the Indian Coast Guard gathered to kick off the races. The 21 km (Half Marathon), 10 km, and 5 km categories were flagged off by:
- Mr. S. K. Das, Executive Director (Technical)
- Mr. Manoj Kumar Sharma, Executive Director & State Head (ERPL)
- Mr. Bankim Behari Patra, Executive Director (Lubes)
- Mr. Anurag Sachdev, Executive Director (M&C)
- Mr. Anwar Khan, DIG, Indian Coast Guard
More Than Just a Race
What started as a corporate milestone evolved into a massive community festival. Over 3,000 runners from across the country participated, highlighting the event’s growing national stature. The marathon successfully bridged the gap between Haldia’s industrial giants, the academic circles, and local residents.
“The SERVO Haldia Marathon is not just a sporting event; it is a celebration of the human spirit and collective energy,” said Mr. S. K. Das. “As Haldia Refinery completes 50 years, this marathon reflects our deep connection with the community and our resolve to inspire a healthier, more united society.”
Hilights of the Day
- The Route: The course took runners through the heart of the city, supported by hydration points and enthusiastic volunteers at every corner.
- Safety First: Robust arrangements including mobile medical units and route marshals ensured a seamless experience for the 3,000-strong crowd.
- The Vibe: The early morning air was thick with the spirit of discipline and personal achievement, with many runners participating to celebrate their own "golden milestones" in fitness.
As the sun rose higher over the refinery’s chimneys, the event concluded not just with medals and trophies, but with a renewed sense of pride for the people of Haldia. For a refinery that has powered the nation for half a century, the marathon was a fitting tribute—proving that even at 50, the heart of Haldia is beating faster and stronger than ever.
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