Srinagar, May 20: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the Jhelum Rajbagh Riverfront and dedicated the project to the public.
“Srinagar Smart City has transformed the Rajbagh Riverfront stretch into a world-class public space and strengthened the river-people connect. It is also a strong indicator of the rapid growth of J&K,” said the Lt Governor.
At the inauguration event, the Lt Governor congratulated the people for the majestic waterfront.
“Jhelum Rajbagh riverfront is a model of urban excellence and it will enhance the quality of life of the citizens, contribute to socio-economic growth and provide much needed support in developing cultural & business infrastructure,” the Lt Governor said.
We are developing smart infrastructure that will preserve the cultural heritage and also unlock the huge untapped potential of the river, he added.
Interacting with the media persons, the Lt Governor lauded the efforts of Srinagar Smart City Limited for developing the 6 km-long stretch of the Rajbagh Riverfront into a world class public space with facilities like walkways, cycling, green space, free wifi, universal access and numerous activities along the way. In the near future, a library and cafe will also be developed. The work on other side of the river will start soon, he added.
Srinagar city evolved and flourished around the water bodies, which contributed to the prosperity of society, local economy and the culture. However, due to neglect and degradation over the period of time, the restoration of this priceless heritage was need of the hour and I am sure it will contribute to living standards of people and boost the local economy, he further added.
Replying to a question on the G20 arrangements, the Lt Governor said the J&K Government with the active support and participation of the people, is all geared up for the G20 meeting.
We are grateful to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji for providing J&K UT with this great opportunity. The successful conduct of the G20 meeting will boost the tourism and investment flow in the UT. The world will also witness the culture and warm hospitality of Jammu Kashmir, he said.
Sh Athar Amir Khan, Commissioner SMC and CEO Srinagar Smart City briefed the Lt Governor on the key features of the project.
The Jhelum Riverfront has been envisaged as a continuous walking and cycling promenade along with parks, and public plazas equipped with public amenities like sanitation, seating spaces, and high-quality lighting. Besides, Srinagar Smart City Limited has also taken up the project of water-transport and Jhelum cruise for the purpose of both public transport and leisure, it was informed.
Sh Junaid Azim Mattu, Mayor SMC; Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary; Sh RK Goyal, ACS, Home Department; Sh Shaleen Kabra, Financial Commissioner Revenue; Sh Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, senior officials and prominent citizens were present.