Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the newly redeveloped Amira Kadal peq1destrian bridge here, and said the project aims to blend the city’s heritage with modern amenities to create a vibrant space.
Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the revamped pedestrian bridge, Sinha said the project, undertaken under the Srinagar Smart City, seeks to create cultural and vibrant public spaces by integrating the city’s traditional character with modern infrastructure.
“This is an old bridge whose redesign was started in 2023. Today, it has been dedicated to the residents of Srinagar. It has been kept in mind that under the smart city project, the ancient heritage and modern amenities are linked so that good cultural and vibrant spaces are created in Srinagar city,” the LG said.
He said that whether it is this bridge, or other pedestrian or riverfront works or parks, the focus of the administration has been on reviving the city’s old relationship with its traditions.
Officials said the wooden footbridge is expected to significantly enhance pedestrian mobility across the Jhelum river while preserving the historic character of the Amira Kadal precinct.
It aims to provide safe and convenient pedestrian access to the Jhelum riverfront and ensure seamless connectivity with key heritage and commercial areas, including Goni Khan, Maharaja Bazar, and Hari Singh High Street, the officials said.
The project, costing Rs 7.70 crore was launched in December 2023, ensuring due diligence in heritage conservation, structural safety and quality control, an official press release informed.
It said dedicating the bridge to the people of Srinagar, the LG said the historically significant project will preserve legacy while improving urban mobility and quality of life.
“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 LG said.
Interacting with local shopkeepers and traders, the LG said that the opening of the pedestrian bridge will improve accessibility, boost commercial activity, and provide a pleasant experience for tourists.
Ahsan Pardesi, Member of Legislative Assembly from Lal Chowk; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Faz Lul Haseeb, CEO, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL); senior officials, members of trade associations and prominent citizens attended the inaugural ceremony.
