I’m thrilled to sit down with Donald Gainsborough, a political savant and leader in policy and legislation, who heads Government Curated. With his extensive expertise in shaping effective governance and urban development strategies, Donald offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within modern city planning. Today, we’re diving into the complexities of the Srinagar Smart City Project, exploring the balance between technological advancements and foundational urban planning, the impact of rapid population growth on infrastructure, the critical need for green spaces, and the broader implications for preserving cultural and natural heritage in urban environments.
Can you share what initially drew your attention to the Srinagar Smart City Project and why you felt compelled to explore its challenges?
I’ve always been fascinated by how cities evolve, especially in regions with rich cultural and natural heritage like Srinagar. What caught my eye about this project was the heavy emphasis on technology as a solution, while the fundamental urban planning issues seemed to be sidelined. I wanted to dig into how a city with such stunning landscapes and historical significance could be struggling with basic infrastructure and planning. My interest deepened when I saw firsthand the contrast between Srinagar’s potential and the reality of cluttered streets and unplanned growth—it felt like a missed opportunity to blend modernity with heritage.
How would you describe the technological initiatives being prioritized in the Srinagar Smart City Project, and what’s your take on their effectiveness?
The project is pushing several tech-driven initiatives, like the Public Bicycle Sharing System, which aims to promote sustainable transport. There’s also a focus on smart traffic management and digital governance tools. While these sound promising, I think they’re often disconnected from the city’s core needs. Technology can’t fix problems like narrow, encroached roads or a lack of pedestrian spaces without solid urban planning as a backbone. The bike-sharing system, for instance, could be transformative, but without dedicated lanes or safe routes, it risks being underutilized. Tech should complement, not replace, thoughtful design of the city’s physical space.
You’ve pointed out that urban planning in Srinagar is lacking. Could you paint a picture of some specific issues you’ve observed in the city’s layout and development?
Absolutely. One glaring issue is the rampant encroachment by shop owners who extend their businesses onto roads, shrinking already narrow streets. This creates chaos for pedestrians and drivers alike, making daily movement a struggle. Then there’s the unplanned construction—buildings popping up without regard for aesthetics or safety, blocking the city’s once-breathtaking views of mountains and lakes. It’s heartbreaking to see a place known for its beauty lose that charm to haphazard growth. These issues don’t just affect convenience; they erode the city’s identity and the pride residents feel in their surroundings.
With Srinagar’s population growing at an annual rate of 2.3%, how is this increase putting strain on the city’s infrastructure?
The population boom is putting immense pressure on every aspect of Srinagar’s infrastructure. Housing is a major concern—there’s a scramble for space leading to more unplanned, often unsafe constructions. Transportation is another breaking point; the roads are overwhelmed, and public transit options haven’t kept pace with demand. You’ve got 1.77 million people squeezed into a system that wasn’t built for this scale. Water supply, sanitation, and waste management are also stretched thin. Without strategic planning, this growth risks turning the city into an unmanageable maze rather than a thriving urban center.
The shortage of green spaces in Srinagar is striking, with less than 3 square meters per person compared to the WHO’s recommended 9. How does this impact the city and its residents?
Green spaces are vital for any city, but especially for a place like Srinagar, which is naturally fertile and surrounded by stunning landscapes. Having less than a third of the recommended green area per person means residents are missing out on places to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. It affects mental and physical health, and it diminishes the quality of life. Kids don’t have safe parks to play in, and adults lose that sense of respite from urban clutter. It also hurts the environment—fewer trees and plants mean poorer air quality and less resilience against heat or flooding. It’s a loss on so many levels.
Traffic congestion in Srinagar has worsened with vehicle numbers doubling over the past decade. What’s your opinion on current solutions like building flyovers to address this issue?
The construction of flyovers is a visible attempt to tackle congestion, and I appreciate the intent, but it’s a Band-Aid on a much deeper wound. Vehicle registrations jumped from 200,000 to 400,000 between 2011 and 2021, and a few flyovers can’t handle that kind of surge. They often just shift bottlenecks elsewhere rather than solving the root issue. What’s missing is a multi-layered approach—think wider roads, better public transit, pedestrian pathways, and policies to curb vehicle growth. Without long-term planning, these quick fixes won’t ease the gridlock that frustrates residents daily.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for the future of urban development in cities like Srinagar if the balance between technology and planning isn’t addressed?
If cities like Srinagar continue to prioritize tech over foundational planning, I foresee a future where urban centers become increasingly unlivable despite being “smart” on paper. You might have fancy apps for traffic updates, but if the roads are still clogged and unsafe, it’s meaningless. Without integrating technology with robust urban design—preserving green spaces, respecting heritage, and planning for growth—these cities risk losing their soul. My hope is that policymakers will see the need for balance and invest in sustainable, people-centered development before it’s too late. Otherwise, we’re looking at urban sprawl that alienates residents rather than uplifts them.
