LG inaugurates redeveloped Amira Kadal bridge in Srinagar
Srinagar, KNT: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the redeveloped Amira Kadal bridge in Srinagar, dedicating the historically significant pedestrian wooden bridge to the people of the city.
The project, executed at a cost of Rs 7.70 crore under Srinagar Smart City Limited, was launched in December 2023 and completed with a focus on heritage conservation, structural safety and strict quality control. Officials said the redevelopment preserves the legacy of the iconic bridge while significantly improving urban mobility and overall quality of life.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the prime objective of the administration is to elevate the quality of life through modern technology and inclusive design. He said upgrading infrastructure should never come at the cost of erasing a city’s soul.
The Lieutenant Governor said the administration has made it a mission to protect the cultural identity of cities while modernising infrastructure. He said efforts are being made to preserve historic lanes, bridges, traditional markets, vibrant public squares and green spaces so that development remains rooted in the cultural heartbeat of each city.
He emphasised that renovation and upgradation of urban infrastructure should serve as a bridge between heritage and contemporary needs. He said this approach is already visible across several projects in Jammu and Kashmir, where redevelopment has enhanced both aesthetics and functionality.
The Lieutenant Governor cited multiple initiatives including the Jhelum Riverfront, Lal Chowk redevelopment, MA Road, Polo View High Street, Traditional Souq Market and craft centre at Batmaloo, lakefront development along the Northern Foreshore Road from Nishat to Naseem Bagh Habak, improvement of ghats along the Jhelum, facade enhancement of heritage markets in Shehr e Khaas, road upgrades from Dogra Chowk to KC Chowk, Apsara Road High Street, Canal Road Talab Tillo, heritage street development from Mubarak Mandi to Raghunath Bazaar, approach road to Bahu Fort Temple, Ranbir Canal Blue Green Walkway and the Tawi Riverfront. He said these projects are revitalising cities, attracting tourists and giving a boost to businesses and the local economy.
The Lieutenant Governor said breathing new life into cities through preservation of cultural heritage is about honouring roots and building a more resilient future for the younger generation. He said smart cities are not defined merely by new infrastructure but by creating a vibrant, efficient and inclusive way of living.
Interacting with local shopkeepers and traders, the Lieutenant Governor said the opening of the pedestrian bridge will improve accessibility, enhance commercial activity and offer a pleasant experience to tourists visiting the area.
Among those present at the inauguration were Ahsan Pardesi, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, IGP Kashmir VK Birdi, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, CEO Srinagar Smart City Limited Faz Lul Haseeb, senior officials, members of trade bodies and prominent citizens. [KNT]
