Srinagar Smart City CEO Inspects Historic Water Channels for Rejuvenation

SRINAGAR, JULY 11 — In a major effort to restore the city’s ancient water network, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), Faz Lul Haseeb, led an extensive inspection of several historic water channels and rivulets today. The comprehensive review covered vital traditional waterways, including the Kutte Kul, Sonar Kul, and Rainawari Kul, alongside other interconnected channels. The primary objective of the visit was to gain a first-hand assessment of their current state, evaluate hydraulic connectivity, and identify critical environmental and structural challenges impacting these historic urban assets.

During the site assessment, the CEO and a team of senior SSCL engineers closely examined various stretches to pinpoint major bottlenecks, including heavy silt accumulation, dense vegetation growth, illegal encroachments, and unauthorized waste discharge points. Highlighting the ecological, historical, and urban importance of these traditional waterways, Haseeb directed his team to immediately document the field observations and conduct rigorous technical assessments. He emphasized that reviving these centuries-old channels is absolutely critical for mitigating urban waterlogging, boosting environmental sustainability, and preserving Srinagar’s unique water heritage.

Moving forward, the CEO stressed that successful rejuvenation requires seamless institutional collaboration and scientifically backed planning among all stakeholder departments. He also engaged with local residents during the tour, appealing to the public to actively participate in safeguarding these water bodies by refraining from waste dumping. The inspection marks the baseline phase of a coordinated administrative push to ensure the long-term cleanliness, ecological health, and preservation of Srinagar’s iconic network of streams.