Srinagar: As the clock struck midnight, the heart of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar, witnessed an unprecedented spectacle at its iconic Lal Chowk.
The grand New Year celebrations, orchestrated by the tourism department, transformed the city into a vibrant hub of joy and enthusiasm.
The event not only marked the ushering in of 2024 but also showcased the evolving dynamics of the region, instilling hope and positivity for the coming year.
A diverse crowd, comprising both locals and tourists, gathered to partake in the communal revelry, setting the stage for a remarkable year ahead. Lal Chowk, bedecked with dazzling lights and decorations, provided a captivating backdrop for lively celebrations.
The Department of Tourism, Jammu and Kashmir, organized a musical event at Srinagar’s Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower area), where hundreds, including many non-locals, gathered for the New Year festivities.
The atmosphere was charged with the beats of Bollywood tunes, as attendees joined in collective revelry. Srinagar Municipal Corporation Commissioner and CEO of Srinagar Smart City Ltd., Athar Aamir Khan, shared a video capturing the never-seen-before moment.
The footage depicted a large gathering at Lal Chowk, adorned with tri-colored lights and featuring spectacular light shows. Khan attributed this extraordinary celebration to the transformative initiatives of Srinagar Smart City (SMC) projects, expressing immense pride in the city’s progress. Rajendra Tiwari, Director Rajya Sabha secretariat, acknowledged the significance of the occasion, commending the enthusiasm of people of all ages.
He expressed delight at witnessing positive changes in Srinagar since the abrogation of Article 370. Lal Chowk emerged not only as a symbol of celebration but also as a testament to the evolving dynamics in the region, serving as a beacon of hope for the coming year. Ishfaq Ahmad highlighted the uniqueness of this year’s celebration at Lal Chowk.
He emphasized the unprecedented nature of the event, describing Lal Chowk as being decorated like a bride. Taranum also noted the importance of the people of the valley in determining the success of such events and their impact on the region’s peace. Rahul Kalia, a tourist from Bhopal said that the scenes at Lal Chowk are truly unprecedented, and being part of these celebrations makes me feel incredibly fortunate.
“I am particularly impressed by the captivating lighting and decorations that adorn Srinagar city, especially the transformed Lal Chowk, now a smart city,” he said. Moving beyond Srinagar, the picturesque tourist haven of Pahalgam also witnessed grand New Year celebrations organized by the J&K Tourism Department. Festivities unfolded at four distinct locations, showcasing the beauty of Aru, Betaab Valley, Club, and Old TRC.
“As the year unfolds, the hope is that these celebrations will pave the way for increased tourism, fostering a positive image of Jammu and Kashmir on the global stage.
The demand for tourist resorts in renowned destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg is soaring, with hotels and guest houses reporting full bookings.
The commencement of the New Year in Kashmir has surpassed the previous year’s festivities”.
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