Jaipur: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Jaipur on Monday as part of his India visit, triggering heightened security arrangements and temporary traffic restrictions across the city.
Rubio, accompanied by his family, landed at Jaipur Airport from Agra aboard a special aircraft and proceeded directly towards Amer Fort. In view of the high-profile visit, traffic movement was suspended along the nearly 19-kilometre route stretching from Jaipur Airport to Amer via Jawaharlal Nehru Marg.
Authorities advised commuters and residents to avoid the corridor for several hours due to VVIP movement and security measures.
Rubio is scheduled to visit Jaipur’s iconic Amer Fort and City Palace during his stay. Sources indicated that he may also visit the Elephant Village as part of his cultural itinerary. Amer Fort has been closed to tourists from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. following security directives issued by the district administration.
Elaborate preparations were made at the historic monument to accord the visiting dignitary a traditional Rajasthani welcome.
Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari is scheduled to receive Rubio at Jaleb Chowk inside Amer Fort. Folk artists and cultural troupes have been mobilised to showcase Rajasthan’s cultural heritage through performances of Ghoomar, Kalbelia and Kachchi Ghodi dances, while puppeteers are also set to present traditional folk art performances.
Rubio’s visit to Jaipur follows his stop in Agra earlier on Monday, where he visited the Taj Mahal along with his wife, Jeannette D. Rubio. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor also accompanied the delegation during the Agra visit. Security agencies and the Jaipur administration remain on high alert throughout Rubio’s stay.
Police personnel and security teams have been deployed at key tourist sites, hotels and along designated movement routes to ensure seamless security arrangements. Rubio is expected to stay at Jaipur’s heritage Rambagh Palace Hotel, where special arrangements have been made for his visit.
Officials said security protocols at the hotel and surrounding areas have been significantly strengthened.
After his brief Jaipur visit and overnight stay, the US Secretary of State is scheduled to depart for New Delhi on Tuesday morning at approximately 6:30 a.m. His visit is being viewed as significant from both diplomatic and tourism perspectives, highlighting Jaipur’s growing prominence as an international destination.
(IANS)
