KL Report
SRINAGAR
As the fast expanding Srinagar has barged into the territorial limits of Budgam, Pulwama, Ganderbal and Baramulla in the last one decade, the Srinagar Development Authority has finally approved its expansion from existing 417 sq kms to 757 sq kms. Minister for Urban Development and Local Bodies Nawang Rigzin Jora approved the greater Srinagar limits in an SDA Board meeting in Srinagar today.
While the Srinagar Master Plan (2001-2021) is currently under review, the Board approval the proposal of extending the existing City limits towards South, West and Northern directions along the new motorway coming up from Gallandar via Narbal upto Ganderbal. From Now on, areas encompassing Dara-Fakri and Dachigam National Park on Northeast, Zabarwan hills from Khunmoh towards Khrew on the East, Kakapora Railway Station on Southeast, Budgam local area upto Gallandar on South, Mazhama Railway station & road towards Gulmarg on the Southwest and Buran, Ganepur in Pattan towards the West make Grater Srinagar.
The Board also approved engagement of a consulting firm by SDA for the preparation of City Development Plan (CDP) for Srinagar. CDP is a collective vision document aimed at improving urban facilities, increasing investment to expand employment and services, formulation of perceptible plan of action for systematic and sustained reduction of urban poverty and focus on urban reforms. CDP also aims at formulating Strategic Action Plan (SAP) and City Assistance Programme (CAP) based on the city development framework to avail funding for development of Srinagar under JNNURM.
The Board also approved construction of four-storeyed commercial complex by SDA at Sanatnagar Chowk. The complex would be provided with basement parking facility, shops and office spaces. It would come up at a cost of around Rs 10 crore and is to be completed within three years.
In another decision the Board also approved extension of premium payment period for shops and commercial spaces at Sangarmaal City Centre from existing one year to three years. Besides, the
Board approved construction of shopline at Bemina, opposite SKIMS Medical College and SDA Guest House at Bemina for housing touring officials from outside the State.
