Infrastructure
Revamping Srinagar: Lt Governor Inaugurates Completed Smart City Projects Aimed To Improve Infrastructure And Revitalise Historic Legacy
People look at the map of 'Redevelopment of Lal Chowk' put up by the Government under the Srinagar Smart City project at Ghanta Ghar. (Twitter/Umar Ganie)
The Srinagar Smart City project is advancing considerably in its endeavours to develop modern infrastructure and revitalise the city, with a particular emphasis on various sectors including public and tourist regions.
On 12 May, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated three completed Srinagar Smart City projects and 25 Urban Local Bodies (ULB) projects, out of the several projects currently underway in the city.
Among the Smart City Projects — Polo View Highstreet has been transformed into city’s first completely pedestrian and wire free market.
The Lt Governor emphasised the endeavour to establish facilities that are on par with those in other major cities of the country.
Highlighting the Polo View market as just the starting point, he mentioned that the Srinagar Smart City project is currently working on developing similar markets in areas such as Residency Road, Lal Chowk, and the old city in the days to come.
Furthermore, the government also dedicated Urban Local bodies (ULB) projects. Among these projects, 16 are focused on development initiatives in 11 ULBs, while 9 projects pertain to Solid Waste Management facilities.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor expressed his belief that these projects will greatly enhance urban infrastructure and contribute to an improved quality of life. He also emphasised the measures taken to fulfill the aspirations of all 40 ULBs in the Kashmir Division.
Srinagar city has a rich and important heritage significance, but in the past years, the city had been neglected of the required infrastructure and resources to grow.
Other projects aimed at revitalising the historic city include — the revamping of water bodies and its surrounding areas — such as the creation of a new boulevard along the famous Dal Lake and the construction of pathways and kiosks along the Jhelum River Bund.
In the entire Residency Road, underground drainage system has been completed, dedicated sewerage lines have been laid.
Electricity and communication lines are being put underground through ducts.
The project includes making the road lanes uniform to improve traffic flow, as well as creating designated areas for parallel street parking and bus bays.
The streets are being redesigned with continuous footpaths, street lighting, and green spaces to provide recreational areas, sitting areas and improve ease of movement. The makeover of the iconic Ghanta Ghar is also included in the project.
