Srinagar, the largest city in India’s Kashmir region, is to create 80 kilometres of walking space in what has been described as an "unprecedented" development for any Indian city. Under the Indian government’s Smart Cities Mission, Srinagar will also introduce water transport and electric buses, as well as cycling paths, a robust sewerage system and an underground electricity network, according to an article in The Economic Times.
The Indian newspaper writes that the “projects under the mission aim to transform Srinagar into a modern, sustainable and economically vibrant city”. Of the 125 projects that are being implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, 55 have been completed and the remainder are scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.
Srinagar Smart City CEO Athar Aamir Khan commented in the article that the projects will strengthen urban infrastructure, improve city services and ease of living, and provide a clean and sustainable environment. He said: “The city should be walkable and pedestrian-friendly and non-motorised infrastructure is of the highest priority," he said.
Launched in 2015, the Smart Cities Mission (SCM) aims to improve the quality of life in 100 cities and towns across India. ce/em
