12-05-2023: The recently inaugurated Polo View market in Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir, has been renovated under the Smart City Project, according to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. During the inauguration, Sinha announced that the markets of Lal Chowk and old Srinagar would soon be transformed to resemble those of Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major cities. He added that Srinagar’s markets would have the look and feel of those in Mumbai and Delhi, making shoppers feel as if they were in those cities.
Under the Smart City Projects worth Rs 3000 Crore, Srinagar is currently undergoing a massive revamp. Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta has recently stated that Srinagar will be no less than other major cities. As part of the project, the J&K administration has laid down cycle tracks and made cycles available at various points in the city for hourly charges. Roadside car parking has also been made available at a cost. The famous clock tower, Ghanta Ghar, is also being renovated, along with the roads surrounding it.
The Polo View market, which was recently completed, has received positive feedback from shopkeepers, who expressed their gratitude to the J&K administration for changing the market’s face. During the inauguration, the Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by SMC Mayor Junaid Azim Matoo, SMC Commissioner Athar Amir Khan, and other officials of the administration.
The transformation of the markets of Lal Chowk and old Srinagar into modern and developed marketplaces would undoubtedly have a positive impact on the region’s economic growth. The establishment of cycle tracks and the availability of cycles for hourly rent, along with the provision of roadside parking, would encourage more people to visit these markets. This would help reduce traffic congestion and air pollution caused by the overuse of private vehicles. Moreover, the renovation of famous landmarks like Ghanta Ghar would attract more tourists to the city and contribute to the growth of the local tourism industry.
However, while the focus on developing the infrastructure and the markets is commendable, it is essential to ensure that the city’s rich cultural heritage is not lost in the process. The unique architecture and heritage of Srinagar should be preserved, and efforts should be made to promote them to tourists. The city’s rich cultural history should be reflected in the design and development of the newly renovated markets. Additionally, while developing the markets and the city’s infrastructure, care should be taken to ensure that the benefits of these projects reach all sections of society, including the marginalized and underprivileged.
The renovation of the Polo View market and the ongoing development of Srinagar under the Smart City Projects are steps in the right direction. These projects would undoubtedly have a positive impact on the region’s economic growth and tourism industry.