Historic Gulshan Chowk craves for attention

The historic Gulshan Chowk at Bandipora district headquarters in north Kashmir is calling out for attention. Despite its significance, the Chowk, which once served as a taxi stand, has seen only minor face-lifts over the decades.

These include the renovation of Gulshan Park and the construction and renovation of two large fountains. Even though these renovations were funded by the administration and more recently by NHPC, they have provided little relief to pedestrians, shoppers, businessmen, and commuters. The huge fountains, in addition to shrinking the parking space in the Chowk and the sitting area in the park—which once buzzed with locals mainly in the evening—have become a nuisance for being defunct throughout the year.

Moreover, the damaged lights inside the park and around the chowk have not been repaired.

"It's disheartening to witness such poor conditions at this chowk, which holds historic significance," said Muzamil Ahmad Bhat from Bandipora town.

He said that face-lifts in terms of fountains, rather than providing comfort, have "become a headache" for everyone.

He added that the municipal council and the concerned departments, which have used funds for this project, have not been serious about reshaping and renovating this historic chowk to its true potential, but rather have created a nuisance for the public. Many people have told Greater Kashmir that Gulshan Chowk needs serious attention and expert planning for further renovation and improvements.