Srinagar, Feb 8: The historic Jhelum Bund at Rajbagh in Srinagar is gradually emerging as a key urban heritage and tourism space, following a series of infrastructure upgrades undertaken under the Srinagar Smart City project. The riverfront stretch, long associated with flood protection and daily commuting, is now being reimagined as a multifunctional public space that balances heritage conservation with modern urban needs.

Officials associated with the Smart City mission said that the development of the Jhelum Bund is part of a broader effort to revitalise Srinagar’s riverfronts while improving accessibility, safety, and public amenities. The interventions include improved pedestrian pathways, upgraded street lighting, seating areas, landscaping, and better connectivity with adjoining residential and commercial localities.
The Jhelum River, historically regarded as the lifeline of Kashmir, has played a central role in shaping Srinagar’s culture, trade, and urban form. The Rajbagh stretch of the bund, flanked by old residential quarters and institutional buildings, offers uninterrupted views of the river, traditional houseboats, and the surrounding cityscape. Urban planners note that these visual and cultural elements are being kept intact while modern infrastructure is introduced in a calibrated manner.
According to officials, the focus remains on heritage-sensitive development. “The aim is not to alter the character of the Jhelum Bund, but to enhance it through smart and sustainable interventions that serve both residents and visitors,” an official said, adding that the project seeks to improve the overall urban experience without compromising historical identity.
The upgraded bund has already witnessed an increase in footfall, particularly during morning and evening hours, with residents using the space for walking, leisure, and social interaction. Tourism stakeholders believe that the riverfront’s improved appearance and accessibility could help diversify Srinagar’s tourism offerings beyond traditional destinations such as Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and hill resorts.
Experts say that riverfront development, when aligned with environmental safeguards and heritage preservation, can contribute significantly to urban tourism and local economies. They add that the Jhelum Bund has the potential to become a signature public space, reflecting Srinagar’s transition towards smart urban planning rooted in its historical context.
As work progresses, authorities maintain that further improvements will be guided by public feedback and environmental considerations. With its blend of smart infrastructure, scenic value, and historical significance, the Jhelum Bund at Rajbagh is steadily positioning itself as a symbol of Srinagar’s evolving urban landscape—where tradition and modernity converge along the banks of the Jhelum.