In view of air quality levels in Srinagar remaining higher than normal despite the city being surrounded by lush green forests, the Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Faz Lul Haseeb, conducted an extensive inspection of various parts of the city to review the implementation of projects under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
The inspection also covered works being executed under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM). The inspection was aimed at strengthening on-ground interventions to address rising air pollution levels and improve overall urban environmental conditions.
Under NCAP, emphasis is being laid on enhancing green cover and reducing dust generation through measures such as plantation on central verges and medians of major city roads, paving of earthen shoulders to prevent re-suspension of dust, and the creation of green spaces through mass plantation and landscaping along the Western Highway and adjoining areas.
At Tulsi Bagh and Bemina, the Commissioner inspected green landscaping and upgradation works being carried out under NCAP and reviewed the quality of execution on site. He directed the executing agencies to ensure timely completion while strictly adhering to prescribed standards.
During the visit to Bemina, the Commissioner also inspected the Children’s Park developed by SMC, assessed the facilities created for safe recreation and community use, and emphasised that well-maintained public spaces are essential for promoting environmental health and urban livability.
The Commissioner further reviewed the construction and upgradation of Community Toilets/Public Toilets (CT/PT) at Bemina and the Parimpora Bus Stand under the Swachh Bharat Mission. He stressed the need for maintaining high standards of hygiene, functionality and regular upkeep, underscoring that clean, accessible and user-friendly sanitation infrastructure at high-footfall public places is vital for improving urban sanitation and enhancing commuter convenience.
The Commissioner was accompanied during the inspection by the Joint Commissioner (Administration), Joint Commissioner (Works), Superintending Engineer (Drainage), Executive Engineers, Divisional Forest Officer (SMC), and other senior officers of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation.
Concluding the tour, the Commissioner directed the concerned officers and executing agencies to expedite pending works, ensure strict quality control and adhere to approved timelines, reiterating SMC’s commitment to addressing air quality concerns through focused NCAP interventions while simultaneously strengthening sanitation infrastructure under the Swachh Bharat Mission across Srinagar.