Inaugurates redeveloped Amira Kadal Bridge
Says it’ll boost mobility, tourism, preserve cultural legacy
Terms project as part of broader efforts to revitalise city’s riverfront, markets
Srinagar, Jan 20: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the redeveloped Amira Kadal Bridge in Srinagar, an iconic wooden structure revitalised under the Srinagar Smart City Project, to integrate the city’s rich heritage with modern urban design.
Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Corner (KNO), that the project, executed at a cost of rupees 7.70 crore, was launched in December 2023 with a strong focus on heritage conservation, structural safety and public convenience.
The redeveloped bridge, now pedestrian, connects Lal Chowk with adjoining markets and is designed as a vibrant cultural and recreational public space along the Jhelum riverfront.
Dedicating the bridge to the people of Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor said the historically significant project aims to preserve the legacy while improving mobility and quality of life.
“Our prime objective is to lift the quality of life to a new level with modern technology and inclusive design. 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 are weaving amenities into the cultural heartbeat of each city,” the LG said.
He added that the renovation and upgradation of a city’s infrastructure should serve as a bridge between heritage and modern needs.
“A true smart city is never just about new infrastructure. It’s about sparking a vibrant, efficient and inclusive way of living,” Sinha said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that projects like Jhelum Riverfront, Lal Chowk and MA Road redevelopment, Polo View High Street, Souq Market Batmaloo, Foreshore Road walkways, Ghats improvement and Shehr-e-Khaas facade restoration reflect this vision of harmonising tradition with transformation.
He said these initiatives are reviving Srinagar’s traditional urban character while enhancing its commercial pulse, thereby generating new economic momentum for traders, craftsmen and tourism.
“By breathing new life into our cities through preservation of cultural heritage, we are honouring our roots. This commitment is not just about infrastructure, but it is about building a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for the young generation,” the LG added.
Interacting with local traders and residents, Sinha said the new pedestrian bridge will enhance accessibility, improve tourist experience and boost business vibrancy in the city centre.
Prominent attendees included Ahsan Pardesi, MLA Lal Chowk; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; V. K. Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Faz Lul Haseeb, CEO Srinagar Smart City Limited, along with senior officials, trade representatives and citizens. (KNO)
