The Jammu and Kashmir government has mandated an independent third-party audit of the Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) project, the multi-thousand crore urban transformation initiative that has significantly altered the city’s landscape over recent years.
The decision, which comes amid widespread public criticism of the project’s planning and execution, was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah earlier this week.
The audit order coincides with growing resident frustration over persistent waterlogging, traffic congestion, and acute parking shortages across Srinagar. Government officials have expressed concerns that the ambitious project may not have fulfilled many of its original objectives despite substantial financial outlays.
The prolonged construction activities, which have continued for years, have caused significant inconvenience to residents and daily commuters alike.
National Conference Chief Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar welcomed the government’s move, stating that the audit would investigate “what was actually delivered against the original proposals.” He emphasized the need to fix accountability for the project’s implementation.
Taking to social media platform X, Dar wrote, “On the failure of the Smart City Project. The Government has stepped in,” adding that the third-party audit would examine deliverables against the promises made.
The Srinagar Smart City project was conceived as a comprehensive blueprint for modern urban development under the Centre’s Smart Cities Mission. The original proposals encompassed improvements in urban mobility, pedestrian infrastructure, drainage systems, scientific water body management, public spaces, traffic management, and disaster resilience.
The project had specifically emphasized creating flood-resistant city infrastructure.
Over the years, Srinagar has witnessed extensive digging and redevelopment for road redesigns, pedestrian corridors, riverfront development, public spaces, cycle tracks, and smart transport initiatives. Multiple beautification projects have transformed the city’s appearance.
However, residents and traders have repeatedly questioned whether fundamental civic issues, particularly drainage and urban flooding—have been adequately addressed.
The SSCL is already under investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on multiple fronts. In 2026, the ACB announced a chargesheet involving several accused, including officials connected with civil works.
The ongoing ACB investigation has kept allegations of irregularities and questions of accountability in the public discourse. Continuing irregularities in urban development projects have remained a concern and a source of political debate.
Note: This story is based on the original report by Greater Kashmir, which retains exclusive rights to the source material.
