Srinagar: In a historic event, New Year celebrations took place at Lal Chowk in Srinagar on Sunday, marking a likely first in the history of Jammu and Kashmir.
People were seen singing and dancing to the tunes of Bollywood songs at the historic clock tower commonly known as ‘Ghanta Ghar’ in Lal Chowk.
The historic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) at Lal Chowk underwent significant renovations ahead of the G20, transforming the town square into a popular tourist destination.
For the first time, locals and tourists gathered in large numbers to celebrate the New Year at Lal Chowk, an event not witnessed in the past due to violence and law and order issues.
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by the glow of decorative lights, creating a warm and colorful ambiance throughout Lal Chowk. The surrounding buildings were adorned with vibrant lights, adding to the celebratory spirit.
#WATCH: New Year Unveils in Jammu and Kashmir at Lal Chowk! @Ieshan_W captures the live mood from the heart of the celebration ground!#NewYearsEve #NewYear #JammuKashmir #LalChowk #HappyNewYear2024 pic.twitter.com/xqRhhq4IDf
— News18 (@CNNnews18) December 31, 2023
With the sunset, people, who had gathered for the usual Sunday market – flea market – in and around the city centre, also joined in these celebrations.
The crowd, a mix of locals and visitors, were capturing the moment on their mobile phones with the singer on stage setting the atmosphere. Similar events were organised by the tourism department in famous tourist destinations including Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg.
Another local Rouf Ahmad, who had family with him said that he had come to witness the evening. “I’m delighted today. Locals and tourists are enjoying together and there is no fear. It’s a message to the people across the world to come and enjoy this paradise called Kashmir,” Rouf said.
Security forces personnel including police and CRPF men were deployed there to foil any untoward incident.
Many events at events Clock Tower were disallowed in the past citing law and order problems. With the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, the government has held functions and allowed activists to raise the tricolour atop the clock tower.
This year, the hosting of the G20 event proved to be a major tailwind for development works in Kashmir as Srinagar was transformed with several new landmarks added to the city.
The Jhelum Bund walkway now offers additional options for city dwellers to enjoy an evening outing. Additionally, the introduction of electric buses and e-rickshaws aims to combat pollution and enhance transportation convenience in the city.