To ensure a peaceful and convenient visit, authorities have revealed the upcoming unveiling of Dal Lake's unspoiled 5.1-kilometre-long northern waterfront, a beloved natural gem in Srinagar. This move aims to provide visitors with a serene and enjoyable encounter amidst the lake's breathtaking scenery.
Being a crucial aspect of the Srinagar Smart City Project, this endeavour is focused on enabling the general public to freely walk, cycle, and fully appreciate the peaceful ambience of Dal Lake before winter arrives. It is an effort to let people savour the beauty of the lake's surroundings and engage in outdoor activities before the colder months set in.
Starting earlier this year, the enhancements to the northern front of Dal Lake, covering the stretch from Nishat to Habbak, are a pivotal part of the Srinagar Smart City Project. Expected to be finished by the end of November, officials express confidence in the project's on-time completion, looking forward to offering a better experience for both locals and visitors.
Athar Aamir Khan, the Chief Executive Officer of the Smart City Project and Srinagar Municipal Commissioner, conveyed his optimism regarding the advancements in the project. He highlighted the significance of the 5.1 km-long Lake Front expansion from Nishat to Habbak, considering it a crucial aspect of the broader Srinagar Smart City initiative. With the project nearing its final stages, he mentioned the anticipation of unveiling this important development to the public within the next 40-50 days, enhancing the overall experience of Dal Lake for all.
Khan highlighted, It is about enabling a complete experience - walking, cycling, and relaxation by the beautiful Hazratbal Basin at Dal Lake. A serene and enjoyable way for everyone to appreciate the true essence of this natural treasure.
Khan assured that the project will be finished before winter, ensuring visitors can relish the scenic views of Dal Lake even amid the snowy season, enhancing the overall appeal and accessibility of this cherished destination.
Srinagar, covering an area of 294 square kilometres and home to a population of 13.5 lakh, was selected for the Smart City Mission by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). The city has seen substantial progress, such as the rejuvenation of the Polo View market, the launch of the first pedestrian and wire-free market with underground facilities, and the makeover of the Clock Tower. Furthermore, the city's transportation got an upgrade with the introduction of air-conditioned smart electric buses equipped with cameras.
In addition, authorities have taken up Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and conducted physical verifications of households and commercial establishments. Notably, they have implemented a system of unique digital door number plates with QR codes, enhancing the identification and organization of houses and shops across the city.
Aiming for a total of 137 projects, significant progress has been made with the completion of 66 projects, and 71 are currently in progress. The Government of India has set a dedicated timeline, aiming to wrap up the remaining 16 projects from December 2023 to June 2024. This underscores the government's dedication to realizing its vision of turning Srinagar into a modern and easily accessible smart city.