JK restores 16th century Zainakadal bridge

Srinagar, Oct 12 (PTI) The Jammu and Kashmir government is restoring the Zainakadal bridge, dating back to 16th century, as part of its efforts to promote heritage tourism here. "Rural Development Minister Ali Mohammad Sagar yesterday inspected the ongoing restoration work of the prestigious Zainakadal project and asked the officials concerned to develop the bridge in consonance with local architecture and taste," an official spokesman said. The minister, who represents Khanyar assembly segment, also directed the officials concerned to rehabilitate the shopkeepers whose shops will be acquired for the project, he said. Zainakadal, one of the oldest bridges in Kashmir, was constructed about 600 years ago by Sultan of Kashmir Zainul Abidin. Earlier, the state government had planned to dismantle the bridge to construct a new one in its place but the proposal was shelved following opposition by cultural activists. The government will also restore the historic Mujahid Manzil, which was gutted in a fire several years ago, the spokesperson said. Mubarak Gul, advisor to JK chief minister, who visited the historic building yesterday said a multi-storied complex with modern facilities would be constructed at the site. Mujahid Manzil was the hotbed of Kashmir politics for around seven decades and it remained the headquarters of National Conference till 1994. Located in the heart of Srinagar city, the structure was set ablaze by suspected militants, forcing the NC to shift its headquarters to Nawai Subah complex.