Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today promised to build a new summer capital by integrating modern elements into the city’s rich heritage.
Terming Srinagar as a historic centre of authority and influence, the Chief Minister said: “Srinagar is the heart of the state and we need to appreciate its centrality. We also need to improve its fundamentals by working on core sectors like connectivity, businesses, transport, water and drainage systems.”
Mufti Sayeed was speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the new Mehjoor Bridge at Jawahar Nagar and Kissan Ghar in the Rajbagh area of the city.
The Chief Minister also unveiled his plan to focus on conceptualising a new satellite township for nearly one lakh people from the lower strata of society within the precincts of the city.
“With rising population, housing has become a challenge. It is almost impossible for four families to live under one roof,” he observed.
The Chief Minister while reviewing the functioning of the Srinagar Development Authority couple of months ago had issued directions for firming up a comprehensive plan for construction of low income group and medium income group residential colonies and flatted accommodation.
Mufti Sayeed also emphasised the rehabilitation of Dal dwellers at Rakhe-e-Arth, near Bemina, so that the famed Dal Lake could be promoted as a world heritage site. “Srinagar is one of the most beautiful cities. We will soon begin four-laning of the Boulevard-Shalimar road with dedicated pedestrian walkways and cycling tracks,” he said.
The Chief Minister, meanwhile, urged people not to discriminate against children on the basis of gender.
Describing as path-breaking the new “Ladli Beti” scheme, the Chief Minister said: “The ‘Ladli Beti’ scheme will be launched in Srinagar in a big way on November 2. It is a very novel scheme wherein Rs 1,000 will be deposited every month in the account of a girl child born in a poor family in identified districts. It will ensure that the girl gets Rs 6.5 lakh when she attains the age of 18.”
