The scenic capital city of Srinagar is gearing up to host the third tourism working group meeting of the G20 countries, marking a significant international event in the region since the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and its transition from statehood in August 2019. The meeting, taking place at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Center (SKICC), has attracted a record number of participants compared to previous tourism-related meetings.
The highly anticipated event, which commenced today, will witness the presence of approximately 60 delegates from G20 member countries, with a notable representation from Singapore. Additionally, special invitee guest countries have sent their delegates to attend the meeting, emphasizing the significance of the occasion.
However, the meeting has not been without controversy. China, in a strongly worded statement, expressed its opposition to hosting G20 meetings in disputed areas and announced its decision not to attend the event in Srinagar. India swiftly responded by asserting its right to hold meetings on its own territory and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility on its borders for normal bilateral relations with China.
Amidst the backdrop of these developments, Srinagar is witnessing unprecedented security measures. The city has been enveloped in a comprehensive security blanket, including the deployment of marine commandos, national security guards, and anti-drone units, alongside the presence of thousands of troops from various security forces. This extensive security arrangement aims to thwart any potential disruptive activities by terrorists, which may pose a threat to the smooth conduct of the G20 event.
Stringent traffic advisories have been issued, resulting in the closure of Srinagar’s boulevard road and restrictions on traffic movement along the route used by G20 delegates. However, shopkeepers in the Lal Chowk area have been issued special passes, allowing them to operate their businesses unhindered during the event.
In anticipation of the meeting, Srinagar has undergone a remarkable facelift, with key areas of the city and the road connecting the Srinagar airport to SKICC receiving significant improvements. The Srinagar Smart City project has played a vital role in enhancing the city’s infrastructure, including the renovation of footpaths along the Jhelum riverfront and the transformation of the popular Poloview market into a pedestrian-only market. The market’s four-lane road link has been replaced with tiles, adding a touch of charm to Srinagar’s smart city project.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
