131 projects completed; work underway on 10
WAJAHAT SHABIR
SRINAGAR: Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) has disclosed that ₹990 crore has been allocated under the Smart City Mission for development works in Srinagar city, according to an RTI reply furnished to Dr. M. M. Shuja.
The response includes updates on completed and pending projects, toilet block construction, beautification efforts, and employee accountability within the department.
In response to a query on revenue generated from Smart City projects across Jammu and Kashmir, the SSCL stated that the data is held by the Accounts Officer and is currently being compiled from various financial records. The agency cited Section 7(9) of the RTI Act to justify the delay, noting that sharing such voluminous data prematurely could disproportionately divert resources.
Regarding employment data, the reply clarified that SSCL does not maintain records of jobs generated, as most of the projects are executed through third-party agencies. While some employment data may be contractually accessible, it is not compiled in a manner that constitutes “information” under the RTI Act.
On the matter of beautification projects for Srinagar and Jammu, the agency clarified that there is no specific segment under the Smart City Mission that designates projects exclusively for beautification. “All projects are designed in an integrated manner and include components contributing to overall beautification and enhancement of the city’s urban environment,” the reply states.
The agency also clarified that no current employee of SSCL has cases pending before the Anti-Corruption Bureau, Crime Branch, or any police authority. Two cases are pending against former employees who have since resigned. No suspensions have occurred from 2019 to 2025, and the department reportedly has sufficient staff, with temporary gaps managed through deputation or additional charge arrangements.
In response to a question about unutilized funds, the SSCL stated clearly: “NIL,” indicating that all funds were utilized within due timelines.
The RTI reply further notified that 131 projects under Srinagar Smart City has been completed whereas work on 10 projects are underway.
