Srinagar: The success of the upcoming tourism working group meeting of the G20 countries will result in an increase in the influx of tourists and investments in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Saturday.
The three-day meeting beginning May 22 is slated to be held in the summer capital.
All arrangements have been put in place with the cooperation of the people of the union territory, Sinha said after inaugurating the six-km stretch of the Jhelum River Front at Rajbagh.
The preparations have been made for the event by the administration and people of J&K, he said, adding that the masses have lent their cooperation in a big way.
The LG expressed hope that the administration with the cooperation of the people will put up a grand show “the success of which will send a message across the world”.
“We are grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi 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.
Srinagar is being developed as a world-class city and its makeover will not only preserve the city’s cultural heritage but also boost its economy, he said.
Speaking about the Jhelum-Rajbagh River Front, Sinha said it is an international-level space created by Srinagar Smart City Limited and has facilities like Wi-Fi zones, cycle tracks, and walkways.
A library and cafes will also be established here, he added.
“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 and business infrastructure,” the LG 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 LG lauded the efforts of Srinagar Smart City Limited for developing the 6 km-long stretches of the Rajbagh Riverfront into a world-class public space. “The work on the 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 a period of time, the restoration of this priceless heritage was the need of the hour and I am sure it will contribute to the living standards of people and boost the local economy,” he added.
Athar Amir Khan, Commissioner SMC and CEO of Srinagar Smart City briefed the LG 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.
Junaid Azim Mattu, Mayor SMC; Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary; RK Goyal, ACS, Home Department; Shaleen Kabra, Financial Commissioner Revenue; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, senior officials, and prominent citizens were present.
