Awami Ittehad Party Criticizes Srinagar Smart City Project Amid Waterlogging Crisis

Leh, India Jul 21, 2026 ALN: The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has expressed serious concerns regarding the extensive waterlogging experienced across Srinagar following recent heavy rainfall. The party claims that this recurring crisis highlights significant failures in urban planning, despite substantial public expenditure under the Srinagar Smart City Project. The situation has raised alarms not only among political parties but also among residents who are directly affected by the consequences of inadequate urban infrastructure.

The Srinagar Smart City Project is part of a larger initiative launched by the Government of India in 2015, aimed at transforming urban centers into smart cities that are sustainable, efficient, and equipped with modern infrastructure. The project for Srinagar was estimated at over ₹3,600 crore, with a focus on improving urban infrastructure, enhancing public services, and promoting sustainable development. However, the AIP's criticisms bring to light concerns about the effectiveness of these investments, particularly in the context of the city's persistent waterlogging issues. The Smart City initiative is designed to utilize technology to improve urban living, yet the current waterlogging crisis raises questions about the actual benefits realized by the citizens of Srinagar.

In a statement, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi noted that over ₹792 crore has already been spent on the Srinagar Smart City Project since its inception. Despite this significant financial outlay, large portions of the city remain prone to flooding after even brief periods of heavy rain. This situation has raised questions among residents and stakeholders about the planning and execution of the project. Inam Un Nabi stated, "After spending hundreds of crores of public money, if major roads, hospitals, residential areas, hotels, restaurants, and business establishments are still inundated by a few hours of rainfall, then the people have every right to ask what exactly has been achieved." This sentiment reflects a growing frustration among citizens who feel that their needs are not being adequately addressed by those in charge of urban development.

The spokesperson highlighted that the repeated flooding of areas such as Old City (Shahar e Khass), Boulevard Road, Dalgate, and Buchwara has caused significant hardship for residents, patients, commuters, and traders, many of whom face severe financial losses each monsoon season. The monsoon season in Kashmir typically brings heavy rainfall, and the resulting waterlogging can disrupt daily life, hinder transportation, and damage property. For traders and business owners, this can lead to substantial economic losses, particularly in areas dependent on tourism and foot traffic. The cumulative impact of these losses can be devastating, particularly for small businesses that may not have the financial resilience to withstand repeated disruptions.

Inam Un Nabi urged the government to establish accountability rather than treating every rainfall as an emergency. "The people do not need temporary dewatering operations after every shower. They deserve a permanent engineering solution backed by scientific planning, modern stormwater drainage infrastructure, restoration of natural water channels, regular desilting, and strict action against encroachments blocking drainage networks," he emphasized. This call for accountability reflects a broader demand among citizens for transparency in the management of public funds and infrastructure projects, especially in light of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and urbanization. The need for a comprehensive approach that includes not only immediate fixes but also long-term planning is essential for addressing the root causes of waterlogging in Srinagar.

The issue of waterlogging in Srinagar is not new; it has been a persistent problem exacerbated by rapid urbanization, inadequate drainage systems, and environmental changes. Over the years, various initiatives have been proposed to address the issue, including the construction of new drainage systems and the restoration of natural water bodies. However, the effectiveness of these measures has often been questioned, particularly when faced with the realities of heavy rainfall and urban development. The natural topography of Srinagar, with its lakes and wetlands, has been significantly altered due to urban encroachment, further complicating the drainage situation.

Furthermore, Inam Un Nabi called for an independent review of all drainage-related works executed under the Srinagar Smart City Project and by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), insisting that responsibility must be assigned wherever public funds have failed to deliver the intended results. An independent review could provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the current drainage systems and identify areas for improvement. It could also help restore public confidence in local governance and the management of urban infrastructure projects. Such transparency is vital for fostering trust between the government and the citizens, particularly in a context where public funds are at stake.

The implications of these criticisms extend beyond immediate concerns about waterlogging. They raise fundamental questions about urban planning in Srinagar and the need for a comprehensive approach to infrastructure development that takes into account the unique geographical and climatic challenges faced by the region. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, cities like Srinagar must develop resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events and mitigate the risks associated with flooding. The potential for increased rainfall and extreme weather conditions necessitates a forward-thinking approach to urban planning that prioritizes sustainability and resilience.

Moreover, the situation in Srinagar reflects a broader trend in many urban centers across India, where rapid urbanization has outpaced infrastructure development. As cities grow, the demand for effective drainage systems, waste management, and sustainable urban planning becomes increasingly critical. The challenges faced by Srinagar may serve as a cautionary tale for other cities grappling with similar issues, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and investment in resilient infrastructure. It underscores the need for a coordinated response that involves multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, urban planners, and the local community.

In conclusion, the Awami Ittehad Party's criticisms of the Srinagar Smart City Project underscore the urgent need for effective urban planning and infrastructure development in the face of recurring waterlogging crises. As the city prepares for future monsoon seasons, it will be crucial for the government and relevant authorities to address these concerns, ensure accountability, and implement long-term solutions that prioritize the needs of residents and the sustainability of the urban environment. The call for an independent review and a shift towards more permanent solutions could mark a turning point in how urban issues are managed in Srinagar, potentially setting a precedent for other cities facing similar challenges. The future of Srinagar's urban landscape depends on the actions taken today to address these pressing issues.