Srinagar on Track to Become a Smart City by June 2024

Srinagar's Journey Towards Smart City Status

Srinagar, under the guidance of Athar Amir Khan, CEO of Srinagar Smart City Ltd (SSCL) and Srinagar Municipal Commissioner, is making impressive strides towards achieving smart city status. Out of the 125 projects sanctioned, 56 projects valued at Rs 320 crore have been successfully completed, while the remaining 69 projects are currently under execution.

Notably, several projects have reached completion stages of 80-90%, showcasing the city's commitment to timely delivery. Khan expressed confidence that most projects would be finalized by the end of December this year, with the remaining projects set to be completed by June 2024.

Transforming Srinagar's Urban Landscape

The ambitious smart city initiatives in Srinagar encompass various themes aimed at uplifting the city's infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

These themes include Jhelum Water Front Development and Water Transport, Urban Mobility Street and Intersection Development, City Beautification and Urban Art, Heritage Conservation and Downtown Renewal, Central Business District Upgradation, Dal Lake Front Conservation, Shalimar Canal Project, Integrated Command and Control Centre HMT, 175 km Srinagar Fibre Optic Internet System, Intelligent Traffic Management System, and Green Srinagar.

These interconnected projects aim to create a holistic transformation of Srinagar's urban fabric.

Milestones and Impact of Smart City Projects

Polo View Market: A Model for Pedestrian-Friendly Transformation

One remarkable achievement in Srinagar's smart city journey is the complete transformation of the Polo View Market. This iconic market has been revamped as a pedestrian-friendly space, with an emphasis on aesthetics and functionality. The upgraded market boasts universal accessibility, separate underground sewerage and drainage networks, underground electricity and communication lines, enhanced building facades, and public convenience facilities. The success of the Polo View Market sets a precedent for similar revitalization efforts in other parts of the city.

Renovation and Revival of Key Areas

Beyond the Polo View Market, Srinagar's smart city vision extends to the comprehensive renovation of significant areas in the city. The Lal Chowk precinct, Ghantaghar, Residency Road, and Mecca market are undergoing extensive makeovers to revitalize these key locations. With a budget of Rs 27 crore, the renovation work in the Lal Chowk area is progressing, with completion expected by mid-July this year. These enhancements aim to enhance the city's appeal to residents, visitors, and businesses.

Srinagar's Future as a Smart City

Enhanced Livability, Connectivity, and Tourism Potential

With the ongoing smart city projects and their positive impact, Srinagar envisions a future marked by improved livability, seamless connectivity, and a thriving tourism industry. The city's transformation will offer its residents a cleaner, more organized, and easily navigable environment, enhancing the overall quality of life. Additionally, the comprehensive urban development is expected to position

Srinagar as an attractive destination for tourists from across the country. The smart city initiatives aim to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors, showcasing the rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy of the region.

The improved infrastructure, such as the development of walking infrastructure spanning approximately 80 km, will encourage pedestrian mobility and create a safer and more accessible city for residents and tourists alike. With the implementation of footpaths and pedestrian lanes crisscrossing the city, exploring Srinagar's enchanting streets and landmarks will become a delightful experience.

The Jhelum Water Front Development and Water Transport project will enhance the city's connectivity by leveraging its riverfront. This initiative will not only provide efficient water transport options but also create an inviting waterfront area where residents and tourists can relax, enjoy recreational activities, and appreciate the beauty of the Jhelum River.

Another notable project is the 175 km Srinagar Fibre Optic Internet System, which aims to establish reliable and high-speed internet connectivity throughout the city. This technological advancement will not only benefit residents and businesses but also attract digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and technology-driven industries to establish their presence in Srinagar.

Furthermore, the smart city mission includes initiatives for heritage conservation, downtown renewal, and city beautification. These efforts will preserve Srinagar's historical landmarks, revitalize its downtown areas, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the cityscape. The result will be a harmonious blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, creating an engaging and visually pleasing environment for residents and visitors.

As Srinagar's smart city journey continues, the city will witness a significant transformation in terms of cleanliness, organization, and overall livability. With improved waste management systems, efficient transportation networks, and enhanced public amenities, Srinagar will emerge as a place where people can live, work, and thrive.

Conclusion

Srinagar's path towards becoming a smart city by June 2024 is progressing successfully. The city's commitment to executing a wide range of projects under the Smart City Mission is poised to bring about a remarkable transformation. As the city embraces smart infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and sustainable urban development, Srinagar will undoubtedly flourish as a dynamic and attractive destination, offering an unparalleled quality of life for its residents and a captivating experience for tourists.