Srinagar, Feb 7: Amira Kadal pedestrian footbridge in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk area is now about 60% complete, with officials optimistic that it will be open to the public by mid of this year. The bridge, part of the Srinagar Smart City project, aims to improve urban mobility and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city’s main commercial center.
Chief Engineer of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), Abdul Qayoom Kirmani, told Rising Kashmir “The overall work on the bridge is 60% complete. While some challenges remain, we are hopeful that the issues will be addressed soon, and the bridge will be ready by mid-year.” He added that the remaining work is being carried out, with plans to resolve any delays caused by the relocation of shops on the Goni Khan side of the bridge.
The project has faced some delays due to complications with shopkeepers on the Goni Khan side. These issues have impacted the completion of this section, but Kirmani assured that they would be resolved in the next few days. “We have instructed the contractor to continue with the deck work while the issue with the shopkeepers is sorted. We are hopeful that this will not affect the overall timeline,” Kirmani said.
The Amira Kadal pedestrian bridge is designed to be similar to the wooden bridge at Rajbagh. The key structural components, including the bridge’s pillars and girders, have already been installed. The next major phase of the project is the development of a plaza with seating arrangements on the opposite side of the road, which is delayed due to the pending relocation of shops.
“We have completed the placement of the girders, and now, we’re waiting for the shop relocation process to move forward to proceed with constructing the plaza. The project’s progress will speed up once these issues are resolved,” Kirmani explained.
Initially estimated at Rs 7.17 crore, the project was originally scheduled for completion by March 2024. However, the delays in the shop relocation process have pushed back the timeline. Despite this, officials remain optimistic that work will pick up speed, particularly during the upcoming summer season.
“The relocation of shops is being coordinated with the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC). We have been in regular contact with the shopkeepers, and we’re working to provide them with alternative spaces,” the SSCL Chief Engineer added. “We expect this process to be completed soon, and then we can resume construction without further delays.”
“Our goal is to create not just a bridge but a vibrant public space that enhances the urban experience in Srinagar,” the official concluded.
