SHEHR-I-KASHMIR

CULTURAL RESOURCE MAPPING OF SRINAGAR CITY (2004-2005)

Aims and Objectives

1. Comprehensive database of the buildings of architectural and historical interest in Srinagar.

2. Preparation of tourist itineraries

3. Protection of built heritage

4. Resource material for heritage regulations and conservation strategies.

5. Help in framing heritage laws/regulations.

Methodology

Following a careful study of the available data, a base map of 130 sq.km, was defined as the limiting boundary for listing of historic properties within the city of Srinagar, with Buchpora (in north), Barzulla (in south), Zabarwan range (in east) and Bemina (in west) This area was selected on the basis of factors like population density and physical features that defined the growth of the city (Shehr-i-Kashmir) in the historic past. The city was divided in 10 x 13 grids, each grid covering an area of 1 sq.km. The entire area was classified in four zones (with zone I and zone II declared as heritage zones):

Zone I

Zone II

City Extensions along Hari Parbat and Anchar Corridor;

Zone III

City Extensions during Early 20th Century, areas around South City-Barzulla, Wazir Bagh, Gogji Bagh etc

Zone IV

The fieldwork was divided in two groups and listing exercise was carried out on the basis of a format created by the Architectural Heritage Division, INTACH under their National Register Programme (Standards of Listing described in Appendix III). In all the team listed approximately 838 properties, which included buildings, natural sites, precincts and structures like ghats and gateways. These buildings are representative examples of wealth of built heritage in Srinagar.