GCC urges expert involvement, stakeholder consultation on new city infrastructure projects

Srinagar, May 17: The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) J&K has urged the Government to go in for adequate expert appraisal of newly announced infrastructure projects in Srinagar city, in particular Convent –Sangarmal Bridge and Flyover and Dalgate–Parimpora Flyover.

In a meeting here on Saturday, the GCC expressed concern on some ambitious infrastructure projects being pushed in absence of requisite level of expert participation and stakeholder consultation —a “must do” in projects of such investment and (intended) impact, said a press release. “Even as well intentioned, these projects have come to be called in question on their very viability to sub-serve the purpose of traffic decongestion in Srinagar. The Government would be expected to share the DPRs (Detailed Project Reports) in public domain in furtherance of an informed discussion and decision-making”.

The Group has also voiced objections to the “2nd set of amendments ” to urban building bye-laws notified vide S.O.58 Dated 26-2–2026 which, it said, are “in no way likely to buttress urban development policy planning or practices, leave alone helping preserve and protect the heritage and cultural characteristics of the two capital cities of Srinagar and Jammu, besides other cities & towns of historical or tourist importance.

 “We therefore yet again call for an expert review of a whole gamut of changes sought to be brought about without due thought and deliberation”. In the context of CAG’s report on ” vanishing lakes and wetlands” and the consequential debate in print and social media, GCC has reaffirmed the need of a special legal framework for protection of lakes , waterways , wetlands and other threatened water resources .

“Anchar Lake is a classic case of public apathy and official abandon. In nobody’s care , the Lake continues to be susceptible to wanton interference and encroachment. We again appeal that LCMA or any other agency the Government deem proper take it over”. Further, GCC has demanded a proper professional appraisal of Achhan project before going ahead as there is “nothing in public domain about how the objectives of solid waste management in Srinagar city and scientific treatment of Achhan Landfill are going to be achieved through this recently approved project”.