Srinagar Jan 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is set to inaugurate the newly constructed wooden pedestrian bridge at Lal Chowk on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the Smart City project aimed at rejuvenating Srinagar’s urban infrastructure and heritage spaces.
The heritage-inspired bridge, built over the River Jhelum, connects key commercial and residential areas around Lal Chowk, one of Srinagar’s busiest business hubs. Officials said the project blends traditional Kashmiri architectural elements with modern engineering, giving the riverfront a fresh yet culturally rooted look.
“The wooden bridge has given a new aesthetic appeal to the Jhelum riverfront. It is not just a passageway but a public space that families and visitors can enjoy,” a senior official associated with the Smart City project, said.
Traders and business owners in Lal Chowk have welcomed the project, expressing hope that it will lead to increased footfall and economic activity. With easier pedestrian access across the river, the bridge is expected to draw more shoppers to the area and improve connectivity between markets, cafes, and heritage sites.
“This bridge will definitely give a big boost to business in Kashmir. Lal Chowk is already a major commercial centre, and this new attraction will bring in more locals and tourists,” said a shopkeeper operating near the riverfront.
He added that improved public spaces encourage people to spend more time in the area, which benefits small businesses.
The bridge has been constructed primarily using treated wood and steel reinforcements to ensure durability while retaining a traditional appearance. Designers have incorporated safety railings, ambient lighting, and seating spots, making it a family-friendly destination, particularly in the evenings.
Urban planners say the project aligns with Srinagar’s broader push to develop sustainable and people-centric infrastructure. “This is not just about connectivity, it’s about creating vibrant public spaces. The wooden bridge over the Jhelum is a step towards reclaiming the riverfront for citizens,” an official said.
Residents have already started visiting the site ahead of the formal inauguration, taking photographs and enjoying the views of the river. Many believe the bridge will soon become a popular leisure spot for families, couples, and tourists alike.
“Families can enjoy time here, stroll over the bridge, and relax by the river. It adds a new charm to the city,” said a local resident, who visited the bridge on Monday.
The inauguration ceremony will be attended by senior officials of the Union Territory administration, representatives of the Srinagar Smart City Limited, and local public figures. Security arrangements have been tightened in and around Lal Chowk for the event.
With the opening of the wooden Lal Chowk bridge, Srinagar takes another step towards modernisation while preserving its cultural identity. Authorities hope the project will serve as a model for future riverfront developments across the Valley, contributing to tourism growth, improved urban mobility, and a better quality of life for residents.
The bridge is expected to be opened to the general public immediately after the inauguration, offering Srinagarites a new space to walk, unwind, and reconnect with the historic Jhelum River.
