Commissioner SMC reviews works at Jhelum Riverfront, Gonikhan Market
Srinagar, Jan 2: With a focus on strengthening municipal finances through optimal asset utilisation, the Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) (Chief Executive Officer, Srinagar Smart City Limited), Faz Lul Haseeb, today conducted an extensive on-site inspection of key municipal assets and ongoing Smart City works across the city.
He was accompanied by the Joint Commissioner, Suhail Ul Islam, Chief Revenue Officer, and other senior officers of the Corporation. The inspection commenced at the SMC Commercial Complex at Hari Singh High Street, where the Commissioner reviewed concerns raised by shopkeepers and assessed proposals for façade renovation and restoration of parking facilities.
Emphasising the need to unlock the full revenue potential of municipal assets, he directed officers to ensure improved functionality, enhanced aesthetics, and better traffic management to increase footfall and commercial activity.
Reviewing the status of vacant shops in the complex, the Commissioner issued firm directions for initiating the auction of remaining commercial spaces in a transparent, competitive, and time-bound manner. He underscored that efficient monetisation of municipal properties is a critical component of sustainable revenue generation and financial self-reliance of the Corporation.
Subsequently, the Commissioner along with the Chief Engineer, SSCL, inspected ongoing works at the Jhelum Riverfront, particularly the underground Cabling project.
Stressing the strategic importance of the Riverfront as a high-value urban asset, he instructed executing agencies to augment manpower and resources immediately to ensure timely completion, thereby enhancing the area’s economic, tourism, and commercial potential. The inspection tour also covered Gonikhan Market, where underground ducting and allied infrastructure upgradation works are in progress.
The Commissioner reviewed execution on site and directed strict adherence to timelines, while ensuring minimum disruption to traders and the general public. He reiterated that timely completion of infrastructure projects directly contributes to improved business environments and revenue growth.
Reaffirming the administration’s priorities, the Commissioner stated that strengthening revenue generation through efficient asset management, accelerated project execution, and transparent processes remains central to SMC and SSCL’s urban governance agenda, alongside improved service delivery and citizen-centric development.
