Srinagar: The Srinagar Smart City Project is spearheading a remarkable transformation of the city and the ongoing revitalization and modernization effort is producing impressive results and reshaping the city’s infrastructure. The Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), established as a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Smart City Mission, envisions turning Srinagar into an eco-friendly, resilient, socially vibrant city that celebrates its natural and cultural heritage.
The mission seeks to create harmony and opportunities for all residents while employing innovative and inclusive solutions, particularly in the realm of tourism, to enhance the overall quality of life. In the past three years, the central government has given the green light to over 276 projects in Srinagar and Jammu as part of the ‘Smart Cities’ initiative. These projects are designed to transform these cities into dynamic hubs with top-notch city services, appealing aesthetics, improved living conditions, and clean, sustainable environments. The ‘Smart Cities’ project, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, focuses on enhancing urban governance and administration. Athar Amir Khan, the CEO of Srinagar Smart City (SSCL) and Srinagar Municipal Commissioner, said that the majority of these projects will be finished by the end of December this year and some projects are expected to be completed by June 2024. Khan noted that the smart city initiatives are poised to bring a significant transformation to Srinagar, including the creation of an extensive “walking infrastructure” spanning approximately 80 kilometers, featuring footpaths and pedestrian lanes throughout the city.
Polo Market: Polo View Market, a cherished destination for both locals and tourists, has recently undergone a remarkable metamorphosis under the aegis of the Smart City initiative. This once bustling market has been revitalized into a pedestrian-friendly haven, featuring a host of improvements that have endeared it to residents and visitors alike. One of the standout features of the rejuvenated Polo View Market is its transition into a pedestrian-friendly environment. The transformation has not only made it aesthetically pleasing but also more functional for the people of Srinagar. The absence of vehicular traffic and the introduction of spacious walkways have enhanced the overall experience. The Smart City initiative has been instrumental in installing underground utilities, effectively removing unsightly wires and cables that previously cluttered the area. This has significantly improved the cleanliness and appearance of the market. Additionally, bright and efficient lighting has been introduced, creating a welcoming atmosphere, particularly during the evening hours.
The makeover of Polo View Market is not an isolated endeavor but rather part of a more comprehensive initiative aimed at revitalizing the entire city of Srinagar. The city’s transformation includes several projects designed to enhance the urban landscape, promote cleanliness, and improve navigation. As the Smart City initiative progresses, the city of Srinagar is emerging as a cleaner, more organized, and easily navigable urban space. Residents and visitors are witnessing the positive impact of these collective efforts, making Srinagar an increasingly appealing place to live, work, and explore.
“Riverfront. Apart from the continuous efforts directed at the Amira Kadal – Chhattabal riverfront, the government is dedicated to re-establishing water transport in the old city and revitalizing age-old temples and shrines in the vicinity. These initiatives are geared towards preserving the rich cultural heritage and historical value of the area, ultimately enriching the overall visitor experience”.
The transformation of Polo View Market reflects the commitment of the Smart City initiative to elevate the quality of life for Srinagar’s residents and enhance the city’s overall appeal. As the project advances, it is expected to continue delivering significant positive changes throughout the city. SMC Commissioner Athar Amir Khan said that Polo View Market stands as Srinagar’s inaugural fully pedestrian and wire-free market. It boasts universal accessibility, distinct underground sewerage and drainage systems, concealed electricity and communication lines, revamped building facades, and convenient public facilities, he said. Alongside the transformation of the Polo View Market, numerous other locations in Srinagar have also undergone extensive renovations. The city is now cleaner, more organized, and easier to navigate, making it an exceptional place to live, work, and explore.
Jhelum River Front: The Jhelum Riverfront has blossomed into a captivating and beloved destination, attracting both locals and tourists alike. This transformation has been a part of a grand vision that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had from the very inception of the Polo View market – to elevate Srinagar’s markets to the competitive level of cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, or Mumbai.
The project’s authorities have meticulously designed a comprehensive development plan for this picturesque 3-kilometer stretch along the Jhelum River. This plan is divided into two distinct sections, each geared towards restoring the city’s historical grandeur. The first segment spans from Zero Bridge to Amira Kadal, while the second part encompasses the region from Amira Kadal to Chattabal Old City. These areas are set for further development as part of the Srinagar Smart City Project. The primary goal of this project is to transform the river and its surrounding areas into an environmentally sustainable and vibrant economic and entertainment hub. It is an ambitious endeavor that involves multiple departments, including Floriculture, Tourism, Handicrafts, and Handlooms, working in synergy to ensure efficient and timely completion. Recently Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha spent memorable moments with people at the Jhelum Riverfront. He described the walk along the river as rejuvenating and an experience not to be missed. The riverfront captures the grandeur of the city, the river itself, and the joy and enthusiasm of its people. He also inquired about the ongoing projects in the city and directed the CEO of Srinagar Smart City Limited to establish a visiting room and other facilities such as a library and a reading room for students. These additions are aimed at further enhancing the visitor experience at the Jhelum Riverfront. Apart from the continuous efforts directed at the Amira Kadal – Chhattabal riverfront, the government is dedicated to re-establishing water transport in the old city and revitalizing age-old temples and shrines in the vicinity. These initiatives are geared towards preserving the rich cultural heritage and historical value of the area, ultimately enriching the overall visitor experience. The Jhelum Riverfront has not only become a rejuvenating and captivating destination but is also poised to be a significant draw for more visitors in the coming days, offering a high quality of life to the city’s residents and those who come to explore its beauty.
“’Smart City Mission,’ Srinagar has introduced a range of transformative initiatives. These include the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, the implementation of intelligent street lighting, the construction of multi-level parking facilities, the development of sports infrastructure, ornamental LED lighting surrounding Dal Lake, as well as the creation of scenic pathways and kiosks along the Jhelum River Bund. Collectively, these initiatives have imparted a remarkable transformation to the appearance and functionality of Srinagar”.
Ghat Restoration Project on Jhelum Riverfront: In a bid to restore historical glory and cultural heritage, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Srinagar have embarked on an ambitious project to renovate approximately 40 ‘ghats’ along the Jhelum riverfront. Under the aegis of the Srinagar Smart City Project, 20 of these iconic ghats along the Jhelum River have already undergone restoration. This ambitious initiative primarily aims to preserve these heritage sites and breathe new life into these significant public spaces. The restoration project seeks to rejuvenate these ghats, not only as places for social gatherings but also as vital components of the city’s historical water transport system. These efforts are geared towards reconnecting the city with its riverine heritage. The ‘ghats,’ many of which date back centuries, played a pivotal role in the city’s life, not only as a hub for social interaction but also as crucial centers for business activities conducted through the water transport system. This project acknowledges their historical significance and the need to protect and revive these valuable components of Srinagar’s cultural heritage. As part of the expansive riverfront development project stretching from Amira Khadal to Chattabal, Srinagar Smart City Project’s Chief Executive Officer, Athar Amir Khan, revealed that approximately 40 ghats will be restored. Out of these, 20 have been carefully renovated and are set to be inaugurated in the coming days. He said that the ‘ghats’ were not only essential for trade and transportation but also played a crucial role in connecting people and fostering social bonds. Their restoration is expected to rekindle the spirit of community and provide Srinagar residents and visitors with an opportunity to relish the charm and historical significance of these remarkable public spaces, Athar added. Apart from these initiatives ‘Smart City Mission,’ Srinagar has introduced a range of transformative initiatives. These include the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, the implementation of intelligent street lighting, the construction of multi-level parking facilities, the development of sports infrastructure, ornamental LED lighting surrounding Dal Lake, as well as the creation of scenic pathways and kiosks along the Jhelum River Bund. Collectively, these initiatives have imparted a remarkable transformation to the appearance and functionality of Srinagar.
