Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, May 10: The authorities responsible for the development of Smart City projects in Srinagar have failed to meet two consecutive deadlines for completing various crucial works, causing concern among stakeholders about the timely completion of these projects before the G20 event.
The works involve the installation of footpaths, tiling, drainage systems, underground facilities, landscaping, blacktopping, and signages and lighting for prominent and heritage buildings. The stakeholders have expressed concerns over the delays in completing these projects before the event and have urged that the work be finished promptly to ensure that the city is fully prepared to welcome visitors from around the world.
Originally scheduled for completion on April 15, the deadline for the works was extended to April 30, but the authorities have failed to meet both deadlines. This situation is particularly worrying given the upcoming G20 event, which is expected to bring global attention to the city.
Officials, however, cited unpredictable weather conditions as the cause for the delay in the timely completion of these works while emphasizing that all G-20 prioritized works are either complete or nearing completion.
“The G20 projects have been prioritized and are on track to be completed by or before the G-20 event. Although the work on some projects was delayed due to erratic weather conditions, we have compressed the schedule to ensure that all projects are completed within the given timeframe,” CEO of Smart City Srinagar, Ather Amin told Excelsior.
He added that the projects, which have been prioritized for the G20 event, include illuminating significant heritage buildings, beautifying the left riverfront near Zero Bridge, renovating the Gupkar Junction, constructing the Boulevard Walkway from Zabarwan Park to Nehru Park, and renovating MA Road.
Amin also stated that all other projects have been squeezed to accommodate the delay and ensure that everything is completed on schedule. However, several other projects, such as Polo-View Market, the illumination of Kashmir Arts Emporium, Press Enclave, and others, have been completed.
“The work on MA Road is in its final stages, and now the authorities are focusing on Jahangir, Batamaloo, Dal lake, the old city, and other locations. Deadlines for these projects have been set in different months, and they are expected to be completed by the end of this year,” he said.
The shopkeepers in Lal Chowk, the city’s business hub, expressed growing concerns over the delay of the ongoing renovation of the historic Ganta Ghar. The construction has caused significant traffic diversions and congestion, leading to inconvenience for both commuters and shopkeepers in the area. “I fear that the delayed completion of the project will lead to significant losses for us,” stated a local shopkeeper.
However, despite the delay, the authorities are confident that they will be able to complete all the G20 prioritized work before the event. “We have also made efforts to expedite the completion of other projects that were delayed due to erratic weather,” said Amin.
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