Opinion | Srinagar’s Transformation: From Shadows to Sunrise

The greatest achievement of the post-370 era is that an ‘Aam Ghar Ka Ladka’ (a common man’s son) can now go to school—something that once seemed like a distant dream. Meanwhile, the children of the elite and those who fueled unrest here were studying in the UK and US.
Against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes, Srinagar has always captivated the hearts of travellers. Yet, beneath this breathtaking beauty, the city once grappled with turmoil and uncertainty. Before the abrogation of Article 370, frequent strikes (hartals), curfews, and security concerns cast a long shadow over daily life, stifling economic growth, education, and tourism. The economy suffered significantly. The once-thriving handicrafts industry declined as demand fell, and tourism, a vital source of income, collapsed due to prolonged unrest. Hotels, houseboats, and local businesses saw dwindling revenues, pushing many families into financial distress. Shikarawalas, artisans, and service providers, who depended on tourist influx, struggled to make ends meet. Even agricultural products like apples and walnuts faced reduced demand, deepening the financial crisis.
Education bore the brunt of instability. Schools and universities remained shut for months, causing academic disruptions and delaying students’ progress. Business owners faced repeated shutdowns, unreliable transport services, and inadequate infrastructure, making trade and travel increasingly difficult. Unemployment soared, leaving young people with limited career opportunities. Despite its natural beauty, Srinagar was in darkness—a city grappling with stagnation, uncertainty, and a lack of progress. This was the dusk of Srinagar, a time when hope seemed distant and hardship prevailed.
The abrogation of Article 370 marked a turning point for Srinagar, ushering in stability, economic revival, and infrastructural growth. Tourism has rebounded, with visitors once again exploring the city’s iconic landmarks. Houseboat owners, hoteliers, and artisans are witnessing a surge in income as new hotels and attractions continue to be developed. The revival of tourism has breathed new life into local businesses, creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.
Education has stabilized, with schools and colleges operating without prolonged disruptions. Students are excelling in competitive exams, venturing into entrepreneurship, and exploring new career avenues. The business sector is thriving. Markets once plagued by frequent shutdowns are now bustling with activity. Entrepreneurs and traders operate freely, contributing to a more dynamic economy. Young professionals are launching startups and diversifying their careers in various industries.
Infrastructure development has seen remarkable progress. Key projects such as the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel (Patnitop Tunnel) and Zojila Tunnel have reduced travel time between Srinagar and Jammu from 10 hours to 5-6 hours. The Srinagar Ring Road has improved intra-city travel, while the Vande Bharat Express has enhanced railway connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India. The future of Srinagar looks even brighter with upcoming projects such as the Smart City Project, upgrading public transport, roads, and facilities; the International Airport Expansion, improving connectivity for international tourists; and new IT Parks and Business Hubs, generating employment and fostering technological innovation.
Today, Srinagar stands at the dawn of a new era—one defined by progress, stability, and opportunity. The city, once trapped in a cycle of uncertainty, is now a beacon of hope. The streets hum with the rhythm of development, the skyline reflects ambition, and each day brings renewed promise. Srinagar is no longer just a city; it is a testament to resilience, a symbol of unwavering hope, and a hub of culture, technology, and economic vitality. The future is bright, and the journey ahead is filled with endless possibilities.

The writer is a student activist and an AI tutor and can be reached at babarlateef96@gmail.com