Category: CITY

The historically significant project to preserve legacy while improving urban 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: LG Sinha

We have made it a mission to protect the soul of every city while upgrading or renovating the infrastructure. By preserving historic lanes, bridges, traditional markets, lively squares and peaceful green spaces, we have made efforts to weave amenities into the cultural heartbeat of each city: LG

Renovation and upgradation of a city’s infrastructure should become a bridge, beautifully linking heritage with the needs of today: LG Sinha

A true smart city is never just about new infrastructure. It’s about sparking an entirely new way of quality living, which is vibrant, efficient and inclusive: LG Sinha

By breathing new life into our cities through preservation of cultural heritage, we are honoring the roots. It’s not about upgradation of infrastructure but it’s about building a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for young generation: LG

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 20: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the redeveloped Amira Kadal bridge in Srinagar.
The project, costing Rs 7.70 crore under Srinagar Smart City limited was launched in December 2023, ensuring due diligence in heritage conservation, structural safety and quality control.
Dedicating the pedestrian wooden bridge to the people of Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor said the historically significant project will preserve legacy while improving urban 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 or renovating the infrastructure. By preserving historic lanes, bridges, traditional markets, lively squares and peaceful green spaces, we have made efforts to weave amenities into the cultural heartbeat of each city,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the renovation and upgradation of a city’s infrastructure should become a bridge, beautifully linking heritage with the needs of today.
This approach is already visible in the several cities of J&K. Jhelum Riverfront, Lal Chowk, MA road redevelopment, Redevelopment of Polo view High Street, Traditional Souq Market and craft centre Batmaloo, Development of lake front including walkways on Northern Foreshore road from Nishat to Naseem Bagh Habak, Improvement of Ghats along Jhelum, Improvement of Facade of Heritage Markets of Shehr-e-Khaas, Srinagar, Improvement of road from Dogra Chowk to KC chowk, Apsara road High Street, Street development Canal road Talab Tillo, Street development of heritage site Mubarak Mandi to Raghunath Bazaar, approach to Bahu Fort Temple, Ranbir canal Blue-Green Walkway projects, Tawi River front now pulse with fresh appeal, drawing not just tourists enchanted by their timeless charm, but also giving boost to businesses and the local economy is gaining real strength and momentum.
The Lieutenant Governor stated that by breathing new life into our cities through preservation of cultural heritage, we are honoring the roots. He said that this commitment is about more than upgradation of infrastructure; it is about building a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for young generation.
“A true smart city is never just about new infrastructure. It is about sparking an entirely new way of quality living, which is vibrant, efficient and inclusive,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Interacting with local shopkeepers and traders, the Lieutenant Governor said that the opening of the pedestrian bridge will improve accessibility, boost commercial activity, and provide a pleasant experience for tourists.
Shri Ahsan Pardesi, Member of Legislative Assembly from Lal Chowk; Shri Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Shri VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Shri Faz Lul Haseeb, CEO, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), senior officials, members of trade associations and prominent citizens attended the inaugural ceremony.

Assess ground readiness for winter response at MED Shalteng, ICCC HMT & SMC Control Room

SRINAGAR DECEMBER 10: Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo along with the Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Faz Lul Haseeb carried out an extensive on-site review of snow-clearance arrangements across the City.

The visit was aimed to assess on ground readiness of Men and Machinery, Control Room operation and overall winter response preparedness.

During the visit, Chief Engineer Mechanical Engineering Department, Bod Raj; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed; Joint Commissioner SMC, Nuzhat Khurshid, Joint Commissioner SMC, Syed Abul Qasim; Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, SDM West Irfan Bahadur, Superintending Engineers of R&B, MED, SMC and other Officers accompanied the DC and Commissioner SMC.

The DC and SMC Commissioner inspected key sites including the MED Snow clearance Control Room at Shalteng, the Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) at HMT, the SMC Control Room, and the JAKLINE Yard.

The Officers reviewed the response mechanisms, availability of equipment, communication systems and readiness of field teams.

At MED complex cum Control Room Shalteng, the DC and SMC Commissioner accompanied by Chief Engineer MED inspected the deployment of men and machinery, functioning of control room and coordination mechanisms established to deal with snowfall and related exigencies.

On the occasion, the DC and SMC Commissioner were briefed that as many as 45 snow clearance machines are kept in ready state for deployment of snow clearance along 35 routes comprising road length of 1634 kilometres under the jurisdiction of MED.

Both the Officers emphasized close inter-departmental coordination, round-the-clock control room functioning, and prompt response systems to address public grievances during winter emergencies. They underlined proactive planning, timely deployment of men and machinery and effective communication to tackle any situation evolved due to snowfall besides ensuring the smooth functioning of essential services.

The DC underscored the importance of swift mobilization of snow-clearance machinery to avoid disruptions. The SMC Commissioner directed field teams to remain alert and fully prepared to respond to any eventuality arising from snowfall, ensuring timely public assistance.

DC Srinagar and SMC Commissioner emphasized ensuring round-the-clock functionality of control rooms and swift mobilization of snow-clearance machinery to prevent disruption of essential services. They directed teams to remain fully prepared to address any situation arising from snowfall and to ensure timely assistance to the public.

Meanwhile, the officers visited the Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) at HMT, where they assessed its operational readiness for seamless monitoring of winter arrangements. They interacted with officials from various departments deployed at the Centre for round-the-clock functioning, surveillance, and real-time dissemination of information, particularly during emergencies.

Later, the DC and SMC Commissioner inspected the SMC Control Room at JAKLINE Yard near Batamaloo and inspected the available machinery and preparedness for snow-clearance operations.

Also conducts extensive tour of the city for on-ground assessment of traffic issues, corrective measures

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 29: To address persistent traffic congestion at critical junctions and routes across Srinagar, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, today chaired a meeting of the Multi-Disciplinary Committee to review the implementation and impact of various interventions being implemented by the Regional Traffic Authority (RTA) and Smart City.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo; Commissioner SMC/CEO SSCL, Faz Lul Haseeb; SSP Traffic City, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat; ADC Srinagar, RTO Kashmir, Chief Engineer PWD, and officers from Srinagar Smart City Limited.

The Div Com reviewed the effectiveness of the recently introduced one-way traffic system in Downtown Srinagar, and instructed SSP Traffic to explore similar measures in other congested routes of the city.

To minimise disruption caused by public transport, the Div Com directed the identification and establishment of designated bus stops in the city to prevent frequent, unregulated halts that contribute to traffic jams.

He further issued instructions to implement colour-coded vehicle zoning for eastern and western corridors to ensure that Mini buses operate strictly within permitted routes.

Meanwhile, he directed CEO SSCL for completion of traffic light installation at all junctions by December 10 and ensure functionality of all ITMS cameras by December 30.

Garg also called for completion of work of e-bus charging station at Zoonimar at the earliest, and also directed immediate commencement of work on charging stations at Hazratbal and Batamaloo.

Further, PWD officials were instructed to begin the process of removing road bottlenecks, and to initiate rehabilitation of shopkeepers and families affected by land acquisition for road widening projects.

RTO Kashmir was asked to identify and regulate illegally operating maxi-cab stands and share the report with the stakeholder departments.

Also, the Div Com called for the identification of black spots and unsafe median cuts requiring urgent corrective measures, in consultation with all stakeholder agencies.

Later, the Divisional Commissioner undertook a extensive city tour along with the DC Srinagar, Commissioner SMC/CEO SSCL, SSP Traffic City, ADC Srinagar, Joint Commissioner SMC, and other officers to assess on ground traffic issues and issued on spot directions for corrective measures and modifications.

At Jahangir Chowk, he issued directions for road realignment to streamline traffic taking the Rambagh Flyover and advised SSCL to utilise optimum space under the flyover for vehicular movement.

He instructed the Smart City team for development of a plan for a roundabout near the Exchange Junction on MA Road and closure of unnecessary median cuts.

At Sangarmal Junction, the Div Com called for road widening for improvement of traffic flow besides instructed for slight changes of Sangarmal bus stop for aesthetic purpose and durability.

At Rajouri Kadal, he directed SSP Traffic to devise the most effective strategies for decongestion, streamlining at the cross road and ensure adequate deployment of traffic personnel at the site.

While inspecting Jama Masjid Nowhatta, the Div Com inspected the proposed area for the development of a parking facility after ascertaining feasibility in coordination with all stakeholders.

 

SJ MOSVI

Srinagar, November 21: As part of the ongoing 11-day Audit Diwas celebrations, the Office of the Principal Accountant General (Audit), J&K, organised a comprehensive awareness programme titled “Leveraging e-Office, OIOS Toolkits, and Data Analytics for Efficiency” at the auditorium of the Government College of Education (IASE), M.A. Road, Srinagar.

The programme, which began at 10:30 AM, aimed to enhance coordination between Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs), Treasury officials, and Pension authorities. A special focus was laid on equipping employees—particularly those nearing superannuation—with the knowledge required for digital submission and processing of pension papers, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and ease of workflow.

The event was presided over by Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naaz, Principal of the institution, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Pawan Kumar Rathi, Deputy Accountant General, as the Special Guest.

In her address, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naaz emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening employee preparedness in an era of rapidly evolving digital governance systems. She stated that awareness programmes of this nature significantly contribute to enhancing institutional efficiency and employee welfare.

Shri Pawan Kumar Rathi, in his remarks, appreciated the initiative, highlighting its role in improving financial literacy, streamlining administrative processes, and promoting digitally empowered treasury and pension operations. He also expressed his gratitude to Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naaz for her support, which contributed significantly to the success of the event.

A large number of DDOs and prospective retirees attended the event, making the session highly interactive and informative.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Javid Maqbool Khanday, Treasury Officer, Saddar Treasury.

Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad, Sr. Accounts Officer, served as In-charge Dice, presenting an overview of the vision and objectives of the programme.

A series of expert-led technical briefs followed, beginning with Nazir Ahmad Peerzada, Sr. Accounts Officer, delivered an in-depth session on Pension Procedures, emphasizing digital submission and verification mechanisms.

Vikas Bhagat, Sr. Accounts Officer, explained the latest practices in Accounts Reconciliation.

Kuldeep, Sr. Accounts Officer, presented a comprehensive brief on Digitization, highlighting the transition to e-office systems and paperless workflows.

The event was organised by a dedicated team including Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad, Nazir Ahmad Peerzada, Ajaz Ahmad Khan, Zahoor Ahmad Iqbal Attar, Kuldeep, Vinay Kumar, Vikas Bhagat (Sr. Accounts Officers); Shahid Raza, Uday Bhan, Mohd Amin Bhat (Asstt. Accounts Officers); Shafat Gul Khan (Supervisor); Ozair Ahmad Bhat, Mukhtar Ahmad Bhat (Sr. Accountants); Dawood, and other supporting staff members.

The programme concluded with a lively interactive session, providing participants with clarity on key financial, treasury, and pension-related digital processes, thereby contributing to a more efficient and digitally aligned administrative framework.

Also reviews establishment of Centre of Excellence

SRINAGAR NOVEMBER 29: In order to review the status of Mandatory Biometric Updates(BMU), implementation Civil Registration System(CRS) and establishment of Centre of Excellence in district, a meeting of all stakeholder departments was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner(DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo at meeting Hall of the DC Office Complex, here today.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed; Programme Officer ICDS, Bureeda Majeed; SDM East, Zubair Ahmad; SDM West, Irfan Bahadur; Chief Education Officer, Ghulam Mohidin; District Social Welfare Officer, District Statistics & Evaluation Officer, , Medical Superintendent Lal Ded Hospital, District health Officer, all Tehsildars, All BDOs, District Informatics Officer, State Project Manager, Srinagar from UIDAI, District Lead Bank Manager, Health Officer, SMC, District Coordinator CSC E-Governance and other concerned.

At the outset, the Deputy Commissioner conducted a detailed review of the progress on Mandatory Biometric Updates for Aadhaar and need for time-bound disposal of pendency in Aadhaar enrolment. He also reviewed the implementation status of the CRS focusing on the Birth Registration-Based Aadhaar Enrolment (BRBAE) initiative for new born to be enrolled for Aadhaar in hospitals, aligning with the goal of transforming the CRS for real-time digital registration of births and deaths.

Underlining the need for a targeted approach to achieve full Aadhaar saturation, particularly among children aged 0-5 years, the DC emphasised time bound disposal of Aadhaar enrolment pendency. He asked the Chief Education Officer to expedite the process of the Aadhaar based initiative by the end of November. He also directed Tehsildars to regularly monitor and clear Aadhaar-related cases in their respective jurisdictions.

The DC further stressed the importance of proper coordination between line departments and UIDAI to ensure seamless functioning of Aadhaar enrolment gadgets and their effective handling so that the process can be expedited.

Reviewing progress on the establishment of the Centre of Excellence (CSC), the Deputy Commissioner instructed the concerned departments to complete all requirements within the stipulated timeline to ensure that the centre becomes operational at the earliest.

Earlier, a detailed presentation was presented by the DSEO, Srinagar, (Additional District Registrar, Birth & Deaths)-Member Secretary of DLIDCC highlighting progress and major achievements in Mandatory Biometric Updates of Aadhaar and implementation of Civil Registration System.

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 19: As part of the celebrations for World Heritage Week 2025, the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K today organized a Special Exhibition of Archival Records and Rare Manuscripts at the Art Gallery, Shergarhi Complex, Srinagar.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Anshul Garg, who also flagged off a Heritage Walk from the Shergarhi Complex to the SPS Museum at Lal Mandi.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from heritage lovers, scholars, and students from various educational institutions, all joining to promote the importance of preserving and conserving the region’s centuries-old cultural treasure.

Speaking on the occasion, the Divisional Commissioner highlighted the significance of World Heritage Week and the collective responsibility to safeguard cultural heritage for future generations. He noted that the exhibition showcases numerous invaluable treasures and urged students and scholars to visit the gallery to connect with the region’s heritage and cultural identity.

“Kashmir is home to centuries-old cultural and civilizational treasures and represents a confluence of Shaivism, Sufism, and Buddhism,” he said and added that “Our rich traditions of arts, crafts, and music have earned global recognition, and our archaeological sites continue to attract large numbers of tourists. This Heritage Week is dedicated to celebrating and honoring these sites.”

He also highlighted the ongoing initiatives of the Directorate to revive and preserve cultural and archaeological sites across Jammu & Kashmir. “The observance of World Heritage Week provides an opportunity to revisit our history and traditions, helping to build greater awareness about heritage conservation,” he added.

The Divisional Commissioner noted that in the past four years, substantial efforts have been made to preserve the unique local heritage developed over centuries by previous generations, ensuring its safe transmission to the future.

He emphasized the need to create awareness among students and the general public about Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage so they can better appreciate the importance of protecting and preserving the region’s glorious past.

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) today organised a Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan pledge ceremony at its Headquarters, Karan Nagar, as part of its continued efforts to raise awareness against substance abuse and promote a healthier Srinagar.

The pledge was administered by Joint Commissioner (Adm), Nuzhat Qureshi , alongside Joint Commissioner, Suhail Ul Islam. During the ceremony, both officers highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the challenges posed by narcotic substances and stressed the need for sustained public awareness.

Senior officials and central office staff of SMC participated wholeheartedly, reaffirming their commitment to work proactively towards a drug-free and healthy Srinagar. The staff pledged to support the national campaign by spreading awareness, encouraging community participation, and promoting preventive measures across all municipal wards.

The Corporation reiterated its dedication to the objectives of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and emphasized that such initiatives will continue to be held regularly to strengthen the city’s resolve against drug abuse.

CM meets injured in hospital

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday visited the families of those who lost their lives in the recent accidental explosion at the Nowgam Police Station.
He visited the families of Late Aijaz Afzal Mir at HMT Zainakote, Late Mohammad Amin Mir at Bemina, Late Showkat Ahmad Bhat at Qamarwari, Late Suhail Ahmad Rather at Natipora, and Late Mohd. Shafi Paray at Wanabal.

The Chief Minister expressed his deep sorrow over the irreparable loss and prayed for the departed souls to rest in peace in heaven. He also prayed for strength and forbearance for the families to bear the loss.

Expressing profound grief, the Chief Minister said, “This tragic incident has taken away dedicated individuals who were serving the people with sincerity and courage. Their loss is a loss for all of Jammu & Kashmir.”

He assured the families that the Government stands firmly with them, adding, “We will ensure every possible support to the bereaved families in this hour of unimaginable pain.”

Chief Minister assured the families of assistance from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

Later, the Chief Minister visited Ujala Cygnus hospital in Nowgam to meet the injured persons. He reviewed their medical condition and interacted with the doctors and attendants. Calling for the best possible treatment, he said, “Every injured individual must receive the utmost care. Their wellbeing is our immediate priority.”

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Chanapora Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo and other concerned.

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 15: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today met the injured in the accidental blast at Nowgam Police Station who are undergoing treatment at Ujala Cygnus and SMHS Hospital in Srinagar.

The team of doctors briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the health condition of the injured and the medical facilities being extended to them. The Lieutenant Governor directed the Doctors and Hospitals Administration for ensuring the best possible treatment for the speedy recovery of the injured.

 

Direct medical officers to provide all possible & quality treatment to injured

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 15: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg along with Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo today visited SMHS Hospital and Ujala Hospital to enquire about the well-being of the persons injured in the accidental blast at Nowgam Police Station.

During the visit, the Divisional Commissioner was briefed about the condition of the injured, treatment being provided to them and the progress of their recovery.

He directed the concerned medical officers to ensure that all injured individuals receive quality treatment, timely medication, and the best possible medical facilities.

The Divisional Commissioner interacted with the injured persons, enquired about their well-being, and assured that the administration will extend all necessary support to them. The officers also prayed for the swift recovery of the injured.

Meanwhile, The Div Com expressed grief over the loss of precious lives in the unfortunate accidental blast at Nowgan Police Station and extended condolences and sympathies with the grieving families.