Revamped Ghanta Ghar zone loses sheen

Srinagar, Jan 18: Lal Chowk’s iconic Ghanta Ghar zone, refurbished as a vibrant public and tourist space, is once again grappling with neglect as large decorative fountains have been rendered defunct due to repeated blockage of their nozzles.

The fountains are a key attraction at the revamped Ghanta Ghar zone. The fountains are equipped with nearly 35 nozzles that shoot water high into the air, complemented by decorative lighting that lends the area a festive look, especially in evenings and other events.

However, officials said the fountain frequently stops functioning after its nozzles and motors get clogged with food waste, including kernels of corn, snacks thrown into it by visitors. On Saturday, a team of technicians and officials was seen carrying out repair and cleaning work at the site to restore the fountain. “You can see for yourself the kind of dirt that accumulates inside. Wheat and maize kernels and other edible waste are thrown into the fountain, which blocks the nozzles and chokes the motors,” an official supervising the work told this reporter.

Technicians at the site said the problem is recurring and requires frequent intervention. “Every once in a few months, we have to clean the nozzles and motors. This time around, several nozzles were blocked,” said a technician, adding that such blockages not only disrupt operations but also increase maintenance costs.

A senior official said the repair work was carried out under the supervision of the Chief Engineer, Srinagar Smart City.

“The issue has been fixed once again, but this is a public asset. Unless people show civic sense, such problems will keep recurring,” the official said, appealing to visitors to refrain from littering and vandalism.

Pedestrians and shopkeepers in the area echoed similar concerns. “This place was turned into a beautiful spot where people love to sit, relax, and take pictures. But repeated damage to fountains, benches, and tiles paints a very bad picture,” said a local shopkeeper, recalling that benches were broken last year and tiles near the fountain damaged on another occasion.

Farooq Ahmad, a pedestrian, said such acts undo years of effort and investment. “It is our own city and our own assets. Civic sense must prevail,” he said.

Officials pointed out that similar incidents of vandalism have been reported elsewhere, including damage to lighting systems near Nishat Garden, urging citizens to help preserve public infrastructure rather than contribute to its decay.