Srinagar is currently undergoing a significant facelift ahead of the G-20 meeting scheduled on May 23. The city is buzzing with activity as officials work tirelessly to complete essential projects in time for the conference.
According to Chief Engineer smart city Iftikar Ahmad Kakroo, the city’s Smart City team is working diligently to ensure that Srinagar is ready to display its beauty and hospitality to the world. “Our officials are working around the clock to complete crucial projects, such as road repairs, smart banking installations, and a major clean-up effort at Dal Lake.”
Mohammad Asif a Kashmir University student said Dal Lake, which is surrounded by mountains and verdant greenery, is one of the city’s main attractions. Unfortunately, it has suffered from pollution and littering in recent years. The clean-up effort is a welcome initiative towards restoring the lake’s natural beauty, he urged residents take responsibility for keeping the lake clean, preserving its charm.
“The road repairs are another critical project that will make commuting easier and more comfortable for both locals and visitors. The installation of smart banking systems will also improve accessibility and convenience for Srinagar residents, Asif said.
The smart city Officials expect all significant projects to be completed by May 20, adding to the city’s beautification. The residents have also been encouraged to beautify their walls to make the city more attractive.
They said, “The conference presents an excellent opportunity to promote Srinagar’s cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, attracting more tourists to the city.”
In addition, Srinagar has launched a manual bike program to reduce pollution in the city. As part of the initiative, around 100 manual bikes have been placed in Lal Mandi, a busy area in the city. Users can unlock the bikes by scanning a code, and the first 30 minutes of use are free.
This move towards promoting sustainable transportation and reducing pollution is expected to encourage citizens to use bikes instead of cars, leading to a cleaner and healthier environment in Srinagar. The cycle service is part of the Smart City project, which aims to modernize and improve urban infrastructure in Srinagar, making it a more livable and enjoyable city for its residents.
Overall, the effort to introduce cycling as a viable mode of transportation in Srinagar is a step towards creating a more sustainable and healthier community. The ongoing renovation of Srinagar, coupled with the city’s commitment to sustainability, has the potential to make it a must-visit destination for tourists.