ADA BHAT
Srinagar, Feb 02: Zero Bridge Rajbagh is undergoing a transformative makeover to host an exclusive coffee shop and food court, equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance cameras, as announced by its caretakers on Friday. The iconic wooden bridge, currently undergoing upgrades, is expected to provide a unique experience to visitors, connecting Rajbagh and Sonwar.
Caretakers revealed that the government recently outsourced the bridge for 15 years due to damages resulting from neglect and vandalism by vested individuals. The reconstructed bridge, costing Rs 11 crore and executed by the Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation Limited (JKPCC), was initially inaugurated in 2014 after being dismantled in 2012.
Qazi Mohammad Yaseen, the current contractor under the Smart City project, highlighted the need for security measures, attributing the damages to vandalism and fires. Cameras will be strategically placed for surveillance to ensure the safety of the renovated bridge.
“The goal is to transform the bridge into a vibrant and welcoming space, rejuvenating it as a positive destination for both the community and tourists alike,” stated Yaseen. Local resident Fayaz Ahmad Bhat applauded the decision, emphasizing the importance of better monitoring and control in the area.
Ongoing renovations of huts, integral to the bridge’s charm, are nearing completion. The franchise for the coffee shop, sourced from outside Kashmir, is yet to be named. Yaseen expressed optimism about the project, stating, “Our goal is to transform the bridge into a vibrant and welcoming space, rejuvenating it as a positive destination for both the community and tourists alike.”
