Srinagar, 15 June (H.S.): Noting that tourists visiting Kashmir cannot be confined to their hotel rooms, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, today emphasized the urgent need to reopen all tourist destinations.
Speaking to reporters, Wani said that while some destinations-closed in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack-have been reopened, others are expected to follow soon.
“Tourist destinations where there are no security concerns must be reopened. Tourists come here with courage, and they cannot be kept locked in hotel rooms,” he said.
Wani noted that places like Lower Thajwas in Sonamarg and a few other spots have already been opened. “We are hopeful that in the coming days, all these destinations will be accessible again,” he added.
Referring to the Smart City Project, Wani called it a significant initiative from the Government of India, adding that much more could have been achieved in Srinagar under the project, which he said, was not.
He stressed the urgent need to fix the city’s drainage system and expand its road network. He also pitched for constructing a modern tunnel to ease traffic congestion along the Boulevard.
“To tackle traffic congestion, especially along the Boulevard, building a tunnel is not a big deal. There is a definite need for smooth traffic flow. We are thinking in that direction, and the Government will take it up,” he said.
Highlighting Srinagar’s unique geography, Wani said flyovers are not a viable long-term solution. “We can’t just have flyovers mushrooming in Srinagar-it has a different landscape. What will remain of this city if it’s only flyovers?”
Regarding the proposed flyover from Sangarmal Complex to Rajbagh, he said the project report is being prepared, and funding will be sourced from both the Government of India and the J&K Government.
“We’ve planned it as a bridge from Rajbagh to GPO, which will be motorable. From there, a flyover will extend to Sangarmal, so traffic from downtown won’t need to pass through MA Road or Residency Road. It will also help those heading to the airport,” he added.
Responding to criticism from the BJP, Wani said the party should accept the electoral mandate and realise that people have rejected them.
“They (BJP) don’t know anything beyond criticism. People have rejected them. They should have patience-and the same goes for PDP and others. We have a five-year mandate, and they have been rejected.”
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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar
