Smart City Project in Srinagar Criticized as a “Total Failure” by Mohammad Altaf Dar; Calls for Urgent Investigation

Srinagar, July 9, 2025 – Mohammad Altaf Dar, a prominent socio-political activist, senior trade union leader, and civic reformer from Rajbagh, has voiced strong criticism against the ongoing Smart City project in Srinagar, labeling it a “total failure.” He demands an immediate, independent, and time-bound investigation into the project’s execution and financial management.

Describing the project as a source of distress rather than progress, Mohammad Altaf Dar highlighted the widespread public inconvenience caused by broken roads, incomplete infrastructure, and poorly managed utilities. “What was envisioned as a model of modern development has turned into a nightmare of broken roads, incomplete infrastructure, and public suffering,” he said. “People were promised world-class amenities, but what they’ve received is endless inconvenience, choking dust, mismanaged utilities, and a city dug up beyond repair.”

Dar emphasized that taxpayers’ money appears to have been wasted without appropriate oversight. He pointed to half-finished roads, unsafe footpaths, dysfunctional drainage systems, and overall poor urban planning as evidence of mismanagement. He questioned the transparency and accountability of those responsible for the project, urging the Honorable Chief Minister of UT J&K, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, and the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Government of India, to launch a high-level probe into the actions of Smart City officials and contractors.

“Who will be held responsible for this colossal mess?” Dar asked, calling for greater public involvement and post-implementation audits. As an advocate for inclusive urban planning, he insisted that future development must consider the needs and voices of ordinary citizens, traders, commuters, and residents. He warned that without accountability, public trust in development initiatives will be severely damaged.

Dar further called on authorities to collaborate with local representatives, trade bodies, and civil society groups to redesign the project with transparent, practical, and community-centered goals. “Only through inclusive and responsible planning can the Smart City project fulfill its promise and regain the confidence of Srinagar’s people,” he concluded.