Srinagar: In a remarkable transformation, the rejuvenated Clock Tower at Lal Chowk has emerged as a captivating tourist attraction in Srinagar. Following its grand inauguration by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha two months ago, the tower has quickly gained significant attention, holding a special place in the realm of Kashmir politics. Since its reopening, the tower’s new look has drawn tourists and locals alike. The striking transformation, executed under the Smart City project, has garnered praise from the local business community for its architectural brilliance, which beautifully blends European and local design elements.
On 14th August, LG Sinha inaugurated the revamped Srinagar Square, Lal Chowk and Clock Tower. He dedicated the renovated prime commercial, tourism and heritage hubs under Srinagar Smart City Ltd to the citizens and business fraternity. The Lt. Governor commended the commitment and dedication of officials of Srinagar Smart City Ltd, all the workers, agencies engaged in the redevelopment projects inaugurated today. “Srinagar has emerged as a role model in Urban Transformation with Srinagar Smart City Ltd offering smart solutions to enable better urban life, lively nightlife scene, stunning revamped market, riverfront and access to seamless city services,” he added. Athar Amir Khan, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, hailed the new tower as an iconic achievement made possible through the Srinagar Smart City Project.
“. The entire community is filled with eager anticipation for the grand unveiling of the revitalized Lal Chowk, a destination that is sure to evolve into a bustling tourist magnet, attracting visitors from near and far. The Srinagar Smart City Project is not just revitalizing architectural landmarks; it’s also igniting hope and excitement among the residents, promising a prosperous future for the city”.
He shared a night view of the tower adorned with the national flag on top, expressing his hopes that this redesigned Clock Tower and its new clocks would symbolize prosperity, progress, and joy in the city. Khan said that it is our redeveloped Residency Road which leads to Lal Chowk, through the heart of the city. Now no wires, wide walkways, underground electrical & communication lines, drainage & sewerage, well-designed parking bays, table tops for pedestrian crossing, he said. The newly-renovated historic Clock Tower was illuminated in the colours of the national flag on the eve of Independence Day this year and flag continues to attract visitors. While Mayor, Muhammad Junaid Azim Mattu said that the new Clock Tower (‘Ghanta Ghar’) at Lal Chowk is very close to my heart. “It was an idea I personally conceived and proposed, approved and broadly designed — and one that was executed with impeccable quality by SMC Works Wing and its engineers. It is now an emblem of hope,” he said. Tourists like Vikram Kumar, a tourist from Mumbai, couldn’t agree more with the locals. “This place looks beautiful, and tourists should come here. This is my first trip to Kashmir, and I am enjoying my stay here,” he said. The refurbished Clock Tower has breathed new life into Lal Chowk and is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for tourists from across the country. Bilal Ahmad Wani, a local told Kashmir Horizon that Tourist attractions Lal Chowk can generate revenue for the region, create jobs, and promote local businesses. They also contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and historical landmarks. ” It’s wonderful to hear that the local market community is happy about this development, as it shows that the renovation project has been successful in enhancing the overall quality of life in the area,” he said. Its auditory charm and visual appeal captivate passers-by, drawing both local shopkeepers and tourists into its enchanting transformation. “The Clock Tower’s fresh appearance has emerged as a prominent magnet for everyone,” one shopkeeper enthusiastically remarked.
“The Srinagar Smart City Project continues to bring exciting changes to the city, making it a dynamic and attractive destination for all. With its enchanting allure and the melodious hourly chime resonating through the streets, this iconic structure has evolved into a beacon of normalcy and a treasured reminiscence for many”.
The revitalized Clock Tower now stands as a symbol of the city’s rich heritage and its promising future, welcoming visitors with its elegant architecture and deep historical significance. Incorporating European design elements into its construction, the renovated Clock Tower is poised to become a stunning architectural masterpiece that will infuse charm and elegance into Srinagar’s urban landscape. The entire community is filled with eager anticipation for the grand unveiling of the revitalized Lal Chowk, a destination that is sure to evolve into a bustling tourist magnet, attracting visitors from near and far. The Srinagar Smart City Project is not just revitalizing architectural landmarks; it’s also igniting hope and excitement among the residents, promising a prosperous future for the city.
As the completion date draws nearer, a palpable sense of anticipation and enthusiasm permeates the atmosphere, with everyone looking forward to embracing a new era where Srinagar’s rich heritage seamlessly melds with modernity. Similarly, Goni Khan Market is undergoing a remarkable transformation and is taking center stage as part of the Srinagar Smart City Project. CEO of Smart City, Athar Amir Khan said Goni Khan, one of the most frequently visited markets in Srinagar City, is set to undergo a comprehensive redevelopment. The Clock Tower, also known as Ghanta Ghar, was constructed at the behest of Chief Minister Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah in 1978. Historians note that prior to the Clock Tower’s existence, Lal Chowk was home to a “Red Square”, making this iconic landmark an integral part of the region’s history and culture. Khan said the Goni Market Redevelopment Project marks another significant step under the ambitious Srinagar Smart City Project. This initiative aims to enhance the overall infrastructure, public spaces, and aesthetic appeal of the city, providing both residents and visitors with an improved urban experience.
He said in addition to the Goni Khan Market makeover, various other projects have kicked off, including the development of a new pedestrian bridge adjacent to the Amirakadal bridge. The enhancement of Hari Singh High Street and the Jehangir Chowk Junction Improvement project are also in progress. Khan said Jehangir Chowk is one of the busiest and most critical junctions in Srinagar City. In order to streamline the traffic movement around the junction and the pedestrian movement connecting various areas surrounding it. “The redesign and junction improvement has been taken up under the Srinagar Smart City Project. The work is now ongoing and under process,” he added. These initiatives reflect the ongoing commitment to transforming Srinagar into a modern, vibrant, and visitor-friendly city. As the various projects move forward, the people of Srinagar can look forward to enjoying an upgraded urban landscape that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. The Srinagar Smart City Project continues to bring exciting changes to the city, making it a dynamic and attractive destination for all. With its enchanting allure and the melodious hourly chime resonating through the streets, this iconic structure has evolved into a beacon of normalcy and a treasured reminiscence for many.
