by Aiman Fayaz
SRINAGAR: The ancient Habba Kadal Bridge, commissioned by Sultan Habib Shah in 1500 CE, silently observes the unfolding epochs in Kashmir from 1500 CE to the present year of 2023.
With the focus of smart city projects shifting to downtown areas, the Jammu and Kashmir government is now redesigning it on the pattern of the Zero bridge, Srinagar. Part of the smart city’s Downtown Urban Renewal plan, the project aims to upgrade the bridge within eight months.
“With dedicated efforts over the past six months, our team has been actively involved in the bridge project. I am confident that in the next two months, we will complete the construction of this magnificent bridge,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, head carpenter working on the project.
Habba Kadal Bridge is slated to become a public space with no vehicular access, featuring proper seating arrangements, Gazebos, lighting, and wood-based fencing for a heritage look. Two coffee shops are also planned on the bridge, providing comfort and convenience for visitors.
“The idea is to provide a decent place for people to sit and even hold meetings on the bridge, as opposed to the conventional shop fronts,” Ahmad added.
Officials anticipate it will become a tourist destination, attracting visitors from various states and countries to experience the charm of Kashmir and serve as a prominent tourist spot in the heart of Shehri Khaas, Srinagar.
“The local shopkeepers are optimistic that the revitalisation of the bridge will not only create business opportunities but also contribute to bridging the unemployment gap that has persisted due to years of unrest in the Habba Kadal area of Srinagar,” said Ghulam Mohammed, a local shopkeeper.
