FCC

Srinagar's historic districts transformed into Vibrant Urban Centres

2023-08-17

Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, ceremoniously unveiled the rejuvenated areas of Residency Road, Srinagar Square, Lal Chowk, and Clock Tower. These revamped zones, now under the jurisdiction of Srinagar Smart City, have been dedicated to the populace and business community.

In his address during the event, the Lieutenant Governor praised the unwavering commitment and diligence exhibited by the officials of Srinagar Smart City, along with all the labourers and agencies involved in the inaugurated redevelopment projects.

Highlighting Srinagar's exemplary role in Urban Transformation, the Lt Governor remarked that Srinagar Smart City has effectively provided intelligent solutions to enhance urban living, invigorating nightlife, a splendidly revitalised market, riverfront areas, and streamlined city services.

He went on to assert that the recent metamorphosis in Jammu and Kashmir has led to the establishment of superior infrastructure accessible to the citizens. The architectural charm of the Clock Tower's public plaza is a testament to India's rich cultural heritage and age-old principles. This spot is destined to captivate travellers, traders, and residents alike, he emphasised.

The Lieutenant Governor further explained that Residency Road has been transformed into a bustling high street, set to bolster economic activity in the vicinity.

Addressing the gathering, he also delved into the journey of Jammu and Kashmir towards peace and development, and the remarkable progress achieved across various sectors.

Recalling the time when India gained independence and the Constitution of India was conceived to guide future generations, he underscored that the central aim was to ensure every individual reaps the benefits, as envisioned by the freedom fighters. However, this vision wasn't realised in J&K. The secessionist ideology had been weaponised by certain factions, leading to decades of inequality and discrimination. The Lieutenant Governor firmly stated that these disparities have now been eradicated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over the past 3-4 years, Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory has made remarkable strides, creating a fresh ecosystem to ensure greater prosperity for its residents.

He highlighted the unifying spirit that transcends geographical boundaries, from the Vitasta River to the Ganges, Shehr-e-Khaas to Banaras, Lal Chowk to Lal Qila. This transformation serves as a testament to the strength of Unity in Diversity. The Lt Governor concluded that through peace, love, harmony, brotherhood, and stability, monumental goals can be achieved, and the seemingly impossible can become reality.

He extended gratitude to the city's residents, the trading community, and all stakeholders for their unwavering support during the process of infrastructural development.

Mayor of SMC, Junaid Azim Mattu, and Chief Secretary, Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, also addressed the gathering. Feroz Ahmad Baba, President of the Lal Chowk Traders Association, expressed his astonishment at witnessing such development for the first time.

During the event, the Lt Governor inaugurated a variable messaging display at Srinagar Square. The redevelopment projects for Residency Road and Srinagar Square Lal Chowk incorporate wire-free streets and public spaces, complete with underground electrical and communication utilities, spacious pedestrian walkways, enhanced storm drainage, dedicated sewer networks, versatile utility corridors, seating and parking areas, well-lit streets, public amenities, and an accessible environment that ensures universal access for all.