Development of Srinagar and Jammu Cities Top Priority: CM Omar Abdullah
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today laid the foundation stone for the Widening and Four-Laning of Boulevard Road from Nehru Park to Kral Sangri (RD 2000 Mtrs to RD 7000 Mtrs), marking a major step in the government’s efforts to upgrade Srinagar’s scenic and tourism infrastructure.
The prestigious project, being executed by the Public Works (R&B) Department at an estimated cost of ₹19.94 crore, aims to enhance road connectivity along Kashmir’s iconic lakefront corridor.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Khanyar Ali Mohammad Sagar, MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar, MLA Zadibal Tanveer Sadiq, MLA Chanapora Mushtaq Guroo, Chief Engineer R&B, and several senior officials were present on the occasion.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the widening of Boulevard Road would not only ease traffic congestion but also enhance the aesthetic and tourism appeal of the Dal Lake area.
“Travelling on Boulevard Road has become arduous — it takes hours to cover short distances. Our government is undertaking several projects to decongest Srinagar’s roads and provide relief to residents and tourists alike,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that Srinagar had been neglected for over a decade but assured that “all wrongs will be corrected under our government.” He further emphasized that Jammu would also receive equal focus.
“Even Jammu city has not received its due. The neglect of both regions over the past ten years will be set right. We do not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, or region,” he asserted.
Highlighting his government’s commitment to regional balance, he cited the restoration of the Darbar Move tradition, introduced by the Dogra rulers, as an example of unity and equal treatment.
Touching upon urban housing challenges, Omar Abdullah said that decongestion and vertical housing development are key priorities. “Land in Srinagar is shrinking; we must now move toward vertical, sustainable housing and modern city planning,” he stated.
He also announced that the footbridge near Silk Factory, Rajbagh — originally designed as a motorable structure — would be upgraded into a two-level bridge with one deck for vehicles and another for pedestrians.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary said the project would significantly improve road safety and accessibility, while Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani highlighted that it reflects the government’s focus on infrastructure-driven growth. MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar commended the government’s consistent developmental efforts in Srinagar.
Once completed, the project will ease traffic congestion along the picturesque lakefront, providing a smoother, safer, and more scenic route for commuters and tourists — further enhancing Srinagar’s reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
