₹7.7 Crore Pedestrian Project Aims to Preserve Legacy, Boost Urban Mobility & Local Economy
Srinagar, January 20 (KNS) : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the redeveloped heritage Amira Kadal bridge in the heart of Srinagar.
The pedestrian wooden bridge, completed at a cost of ?7.70 crore under the Srinagar Smart City Limited initiative, was launched in December 2023. Officials stated the project adhered to stringent standards of heritage conservation, structural safety, and quality control.
Dedicating the bridge to the public, the Lieutenant Governor said the historically significant structure would preserve the city’s legacy while enhancing urban mobility and quality of life.
“Our prime objective is to elevate the quality of life through modern technology and inclusive design,” Mr. Sinha said. “We have made it a mission to protect the soul of every city while upgrading infrastructure. By preserving historic lanes, bridges, traditional markets, lively squares, and peaceful green spaces, we have woven modern amenities into the cultural heartbeat of each city.”
He emphasized that urban renovation should “become a bridge, beautifully linking heritage with contemporary needs.”
This approach, he noted, is already visible across several urban centres in Jammu and Kashmir. Redevelopment projects—including the Jhelum Riverfront, Lal Chowk, MA Road, Polo View High Street, the Traditional Souq Market and Craft Centre in Batmaloo, lakefront walkways from Nishat to Naseem Bagh, and the revitalisation of heritage markets in Shehr-e-Khaas—are “pulsing with fresh appeal.
Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel” These initiatives are not only attracting tourists but are also boosting local businesses and strengthening the regional economy, he added.
“By breathing new life into our cities through preservation of cultural heritage, we are honouring our roots,” Mr. Sinha stated. “This commitment is about more than infrastructure; it is about building a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for the younger generation.”
He further observed, “A true smart city is never just about new infrastructure. It is about sparking an entirely new way of living—vibrant, efficient, and inclusive.”
Interacting with local shopkeepers and traders after the inauguration, the Lieutenant Governor said the pedestrian bridge would improve accessibility, stimulate commercial activity, and enhance the experience for tourists.
The event was attended by Shri Ahsan Pardesi, Member of Legislative Assembly from Lal Chowk; Shri Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Shri V.K. Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; and Shri Faz Lul Haseeb, CEO of Srinagar Smart City Limited. Senior officials, members of trade associations, and prominent citizens were also present. (KNS)