Srinagar will get new look very soon: Chief Secretary
MASROOR AHMED
SRINAGAR: Since last few years Srinagar city is in bad shape due to political vendetta, although link roads, single lane roads and many important roads are still without macadam, repairing of roads was in slow pace ,drainage system is not correct, no parking slots are in Shahr-e-Khaas. The heritage buildings of Srinagar are also dilapidated.
According to local residents of Srinagar, it was completely ignored by various governments especially during the PDP era.
To address the long pending demand of the residents of old Srinagar City administration has decided to give a new makeover to Shahr-e-Khaas. Work has been put on the fast track to complete the projects within the stipulated time.
“We have taken up several heritage projects, and others are being developed and upgraded. Work has started on all projects,” told Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta to the State Times, during a function in Srinagar.
“The highlights of the project will be the new look of heritage markets and historical buildings. The shapes of all heritage buildings in the old city will be refurbished without altering their original design and architecture, within one month you will look a new Shahr-e-Khaas in coming days,” A.K Mehta added.
Regarding the roads, he said, authorities are working on it and very soon you will see macadamised roads in Srinagar whether it would be a link road or main road, there will be no patch work on any road ,we have given clear instructions for fully macadamization or black topping in uptown and downtown, there is no difference between up or downtown.
Mean while SMC Authorities said, we have identified the heritage buildings in the entire old city which require a makeover. Special care will be taken to make it eye-pleasing without changing the basic design.
Likewise, the historic markets including Maharaj Gunj, Bohri Kadal, and others will be developed on modern lines without altering their basic architecture.
“We have devised a proper plan to improve the shapes of the heritage buildings. We have identified the buildings that need to be refurbished. Similarly, all markets that have historic significance will be developed. It is all part of the project,” said officials.
The second phase of the Srinagar riverfront is also being taken up. Dredging of Jhelum will be carried out by the Irrigation and Flood Control department. “Maximum Ghats have been developed and work is on remaining Ghats,” he added.
