Srinagar: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox settlement |
{{Infobox settlement |
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| name = Srinagar |
| name = Srinagar |
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{{Photomontage |
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| photo1a = Srinagar pano.jpg |
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| photo2a = [[File:Kashmir arts emporium building.JPG]] |
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| photo2b = File:India - Srinagar - 032 - sunset at Nishat Bagh Mughal Gardens HDR.jpg |
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| photo3a = [[File:Jamia-Masjid-Srinagar.jpg|thumb|Jamia Masjid]] |
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| photo3b = [[File:Grand Palace Srinagar.jpg|thumb|Palace in srinagar]] |
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| photo4a = [[File:Hazratbal-Mosque-in-Srinagar.jpg|thumb|Hazratbal Shrine]] |
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| size = 280 |
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| spacing = 2 |
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| color = |
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| border = 0 |
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| foot_montage = {{nobreak|From top : Skyline including the [[Dal Lake]],}}<br>Kashmir arts emporium building, [[Nishat Bagh]], [[Jamia Masjid]],<br>Grand Palace,<br>Hazratbal Mosque |
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}} |
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| native_name = {{lang|ur|سرینگر }} |
| native_name = {{lang|ur|سرینگر }} |
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| native_type = Capital (summer) |
| native_type = Capital (summer) |
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| other_name = |
| other_name = |
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| settlement_type = [[Metropolis]] |
| settlement_type = [[Metropolis]] |
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| image_skyline = Srinagar pano.jpg |
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| imagesize = 250px |
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| image_alt = Panorama of city in green area near a river and lakes |
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| image_caption = View of Srinagar and [[Dal Lake]] |
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| map_alt = |
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| map_caption = |
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| pushpin_map = India Jammu and Kashmir |
| pushpin_map = India Jammu and Kashmir |
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| pushpin_label_position = right |
| pushpin_label_position = right |
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In 1989, Srinagar became the focus of the Kashmiri uprising against Indian rule and the Indian military, which has been present since 1990, and the area continues to be a highly politicized hotbed of separatist activity with frequent spontaneous protests and strikes ("bandhs" in local parlance). On 19 January 1990, the [[Gawakadal massacre]] of at least 50 unarmed protestors by Indian forces,<ref>{{cite news|last=Peerzada|first=Ashiq|title='90 Srinagar massacre: SHRC orders fresh probe|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=Hindustan Times|date=27 December 2012|location=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/Srinagar/90-Srinagar-massacre-SHRC-orders-fresh-probe/Article1-981312.aspx|quote=At least 52 people were allegedly killed in security forces' firing during a protest demonstration on January 21, 1990 near Gow Kadal, in heart of Srinagar.}}</ref> and up to 280 by some estimates from eyewitness accounts,<ref name="wd">Dalrymple, William. [http://www.nybooks.com/articles/21310 ''Kashmir: The Scarred and the Beautiful'']. "[[The New York Review of Books]]." 1 May 2008.</ref> set the stage for bomblasts, shootouts, and curfews that characterized Srinagar throughout the early and mid-1990s. Further [[Zakoora And Tengpora Massacre, 1990|massacres in the spring of 1990]] in which 51 unarmed protesters were allegedly killed by Indian security forces in Zakura and Tengpora heightened anti-Indian sentiments in Srinagar.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://presstv.us/detail/2013/01/21/284807/kashmir-marks-gaw-kadal-massacre | title=Kashmir marks anniversary of Gaw Kadal Massacre in 1990 | accessdate=21 January 2013}}</ref> As a result, bunkers and checkpoints are found throughout the city, although their numbers have come down in the past few years as militancy has declined. However, frequent protests still occur against Indian rule, such as the 22 August 2008 rally in which hundreds of thousands<ref>{{cite news|title=Muslims wage huge Kashmir protest|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2008-08-23/news/0808220596_1_indian-kashmir-himalayan-region-muslims|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=Chicago Tribune|date=23 August 2008|quote="A Kashmiri Muslim watches a protest march Friday by hundreds of thousands of Muslims in Srinagar, Indian Kashmir's main city. It was the largest protest against Indian rule in the Himalayan region in more than a decade"}}</ref> of Kashmiri civilians protested against Indian rule in Srinagar.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hundreds of Thousands March for Kashmir’s Independence|url=http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/world/hundreds-of-thousands-march-for-kashmirs-independence-3204.html|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=The Epoch Times|date=22 August 2008|quote="Waving green Islamic flags and shouting "we want freedom", hundreds of thousands of Muslims marched peacefully in Indian Kashmir's main city on Friday"}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Muslims in huge Kashmir protest|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=BBC|date=22 August 2008|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7576156.stm|quote=Hundreds of thousands of Muslims have taken part in a protest rally called by separatist leaders in Indian-controlled Kashmir's main city, Srinagar.}}</ref> Similar protests took place every summer for the next 4 years. In 2010 alone 120 unarmed protestors were killed by police and CRPF, most recently protest following the execution of [[Afzal Guru]] in February 2013.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hussein|first=AijazSt|title=India's hanging of Kashmiri man leads to fears of new unrest after 2 years of quiet|url=http://www.startribune.com/world/190674821.html?refer=y|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=Star Tribune|date=12 February 2013|quote=In all three years, hundreds of thousands of young men took to the streets, hurling rocks and abuse at Indian forces.}}</ref> |
In 1989, Srinagar became the focus of the Kashmiri uprising against Indian rule and the Indian military, which has been present since 1990, and the area continues to be a highly politicized hotbed of separatist activity with frequent spontaneous protests and strikes ("bandhs" in local parlance). On 19 January 1990, the [[Gawakadal massacre]] of at least 50 unarmed protestors by Indian forces,<ref>{{cite news|last=Peerzada|first=Ashiq|title='90 Srinagar massacre: SHRC orders fresh probe|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=Hindustan Times|date=27 December 2012|location=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/Srinagar/90-Srinagar-massacre-SHRC-orders-fresh-probe/Article1-981312.aspx|quote=At least 52 people were allegedly killed in security forces' firing during a protest demonstration on January 21, 1990 near Gow Kadal, in heart of Srinagar.}}</ref> and up to 280 by some estimates from eyewitness accounts,<ref name="wd">Dalrymple, William. [http://www.nybooks.com/articles/21310 ''Kashmir: The Scarred and the Beautiful'']. "[[The New York Review of Books]]." 1 May 2008.</ref> set the stage for bomblasts, shootouts, and curfews that characterized Srinagar throughout the early and mid-1990s. Further [[Zakoora And Tengpora Massacre, 1990|massacres in the spring of 1990]] in which 51 unarmed protesters were allegedly killed by Indian security forces in Zakura and Tengpora heightened anti-Indian sentiments in Srinagar.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://presstv.us/detail/2013/01/21/284807/kashmir-marks-gaw-kadal-massacre | title=Kashmir marks anniversary of Gaw Kadal Massacre in 1990 | accessdate=21 January 2013}}</ref> As a result, bunkers and checkpoints are found throughout the city, although their numbers have come down in the past few years as militancy has declined. However, frequent protests still occur against Indian rule, such as the 22 August 2008 rally in which hundreds of thousands<ref>{{cite news|title=Muslims wage huge Kashmir protest|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2008-08-23/news/0808220596_1_indian-kashmir-himalayan-region-muslims|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=Chicago Tribune|date=23 August 2008|quote="A Kashmiri Muslim watches a protest march Friday by hundreds of thousands of Muslims in Srinagar, Indian Kashmir's main city. It was the largest protest against Indian rule in the Himalayan region in more than a decade"}}</ref> of Kashmiri civilians protested against Indian rule in Srinagar.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hundreds of Thousands March for Kashmir’s Independence|url=http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/world/hundreds-of-thousands-march-for-kashmirs-independence-3204.html|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=The Epoch Times|date=22 August 2008|quote="Waving green Islamic flags and shouting "we want freedom", hundreds of thousands of Muslims marched peacefully in Indian Kashmir's main city on Friday"}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Muslims in huge Kashmir protest|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=BBC|date=22 August 2008|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7576156.stm|quote=Hundreds of thousands of Muslims have taken part in a protest rally called by separatist leaders in Indian-controlled Kashmir's main city, Srinagar.}}</ref> Similar protests took place every summer for the next 4 years. In 2010 alone 120 unarmed protestors were killed by police and CRPF, most recently protest following the execution of [[Afzal Guru]] in February 2013.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hussein|first=AijazSt|title=India's hanging of Kashmiri man leads to fears of new unrest after 2 years of quiet|url=http://www.startribune.com/world/190674821.html?refer=y|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=Star Tribune|date=12 February 2013|quote=In all three years, hundreds of thousands of young men took to the streets, hurling rocks and abuse at Indian forces.}}</ref> |
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The city also saw increased violence against minorities, particularly the [[Kashmiri Pandits|Kashmiri Hindus]], starting from mid-80s and resulting in their ultimate exodus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/specials/1246_land/page9.shtml|title=Paradise Lost|publisher=bbc.co.uk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kashmirforum.org/violence-against-kashmiri-hindus.htm|title=Violence against Kashmiri hindus |
The city also saw increased violence against minorities, particularly the [[Kashmiri Pandits|Kashmiri Hindus]], starting from mid-80s and resulting in their ultimate exodus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/specials/1246_land/page9.shtml|title=Paradise Lost|publisher=bbc.co.uk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kashmirforum.org/violence-against-kashmiri-hindus.htm|title=Violence against Kashmiri hindus|publisher=kashmirforum.org}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/2005/jan/19kanch.htm|title=19/01/90: When Kashmiri Pandits fled Islamic terrorists|publisher=rediff.com|date=19 January 2005|accessdate=10 December 2015}}</ref> Posters were pasted to walls of houses of Pandits, telling them to leave or die, temples were destroyed and houses burnt;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/kashmiri-pandits-offered-three-choices-by-radical-islamists|title=Kashmiri Pandits offered three choices by Islamists|publisher=indiandefencereview.com}}</ref> but a very small minority of pandits still remains in the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/spotlight/kashmirtheforgottenconflict/2011/07/201176134818984961.html|title=Kashmiri Pandits: Why we never fled Kashmir|publisher=aljazeera.com|date=2 Aug 2011|accessdate=10 December 2015}}</ref> The recent years have seen protests in Srinagar from local Kashmiri pandits for protection of their shrines in Kashmir and their rights.<ref>{{cite news|title=Kashmiri Pandits stage protest march in Srinagar|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/kashmiri-pandits-stage-protest-march-in-srinagar/article6082137.ece|newspaper=The Hindu|date=4 June 2014|accessdate=10 December 2015|quote=The protesters demanded minority status for the community and removal of nomenclature like migrants or non-migrants from official communication.}}</ref> |
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==Geography== |
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[[File:Kashmir map.jpg|thumb|right|Map of Kashmir showing various Geographic regions.]] |
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The city is located on both the sides of the [[Jhelum River]], which is called ''Vyath'' in Kashmir. The river passes through the city and meanders through the valley, moving onward and deepening in the [[Dal Lake]]. The city is famous for its nine old bridges, connecting the two parts of the city. |
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There are a number of lakes and swamps in and around the city. These include the [[Dal Lake|Dal]], the [[Nigeen Lake|Nigeen]], the [[Anchar Lake|Anchar]], [[Khushal Sar]], [[Gil Sar]] and [[Hokersar]]. |
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Hokersar is a wetland situated near Srinagar. Thousands of migratory birds come to Hokersar from Siberia and other regions in the winter season. Migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia use wetlands in Kashmir as their transitory camps between September and October and again around spring. These wetlands play a vital role in sustaining a large population of wintering, staging and breeding birds. |
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Hokersar is {{convert|14|km|abbr=on}} north of Srinagar, and is a world class wetland spread over {{convert|13.75|km2|abbr=on}} including lake and [[Marsh|marshy area]]. It is the most accessible and well-known of Kashmir's [[wetlands]] which include Hygam, Shalibug and Mirgund. A record number of migratory birds have visited Hokersar in recent years.{{Citation needed|date=December 2011}} |
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Birds found in Hokersar—Migratory [[duck]]s and [[geese]] which include [[brahminy duck]], [[tufted duck]], [[gadwall]], [[garganey]], [[greylag goose]], [[mallard]], [[common merganser]], [[northern pintail]], [[common pochard]], [[ferruginous pochard]], [[red-crested pochard]], [[ruddy shelduck]], [[northern shoveller]], [[common teal]], and [[Eurasian wigeon]].{{Citation needed|date=December 2011}} |
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==Climate== |
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Srinagar has a [[humid subtropical climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]] ''Cfa''), much cooler than what is found in much of the rest of India, due to its moderately high elevation and northerly position. The valley is surrounded by the Himalayas on all sides. Winters are cool, with daytime a January average of {{convert|2.5|°C|1}}, and temperatures below freezing at night. Moderate to heavy snowfall occurs in winter and the only road that connects Srinagar with the rest of India may get blocked for a few days due to avalanches. Summers are warm with a July daytime average of {{convert|24.1|°C|1}}. The average annual rainfall is around {{convert|710|mm}}. Spring is the wettest season while autumn is the driest. The highest temperature reliably recorded is {{convert|38.3|°C}} and the lowest is {{convert|-20.0|°C}}.<ref name="indpune" /> |
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{{Weather box|location = Srinagar (1971–1986 normals) |
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|metric first = Y |
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|single line = Y |
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|Jan record high C=17.2 |
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|Feb record high C=20.6 |
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|Mar record high C=27.3 |
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|Apr record high C=31.1 |
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|May record high C=36.4 |
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|Jun record high C=37.8 |
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|Jul record high C=38.3 |
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|Aug record high C=36.7 |
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|Sep record high C=35.0 |
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|Oct record high C=33.9 |
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|Nov record high C=24.5 |
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|Dec record high C=18.3 |
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|year record high C= |
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|Jan high C = 7.0 |
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|Feb high C = 8.2 |
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|Mar high C = 14.1 |
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|Apr high C = 20.5 |
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|May high C = 24.5 |
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|Jun high C = 29.6 |
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|Jul high C = 30.1 |
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|Aug high C = 29.6 |
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|Sep high C = 27.4 |
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|Oct high C = 22.4 |
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|Nov high C = 15.1 |
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|Dec high C = 8.2 |
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|year high C = 19.7 |
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|Jan mean C = 2.5 |
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|Feb mean C = 3.8 |
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|Mar mean C = 8.8 |
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|Apr mean C = 14.2 |
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|May mean C = 17.7 |
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|Jun mean C = 22.3 |
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|Jul mean C = 24.1 |
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|Aug mean C = 23.5 |
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|Sep mean C = 19.8 |
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|Oct mean C = 14.1 |
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|Nov mean C = 8.1 |
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|Dec mean C = 3.4 |
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|year mean C=13.5 |
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|Jan low C = −2.0 |
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|Feb low C = −0.7 |
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|Mar low C = 3.4 |
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|Apr low C = 7.9 |
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|May low C = 10.8 |
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|Jun low C = 14.9 |
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|Jul low C = 18.1 |
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|Aug low C = 17.5 |
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|Sep low C = 12.1 |
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|Oct low C = 5.8 |
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|Nov low C = 0.9 |
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|Dec low C = −1.5 |
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|year low C = 7.3 |
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|Jan record low C=-14.4 |
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|Feb record low C=-20.0 |
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|Mar record low C=-6.9 |
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|Apr record low C=0.0 |
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|May record low C=1.0 |
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|Jun record low C=7.2 |
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|Jul record low C=10.3 |
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|Aug record low C=9.5 |
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|Sep record low C=4.4 |
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|Oct record low C=-1.7 |
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|Nov record low C=-7.8 |
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|Dec record low C=-12.8 |
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|year record low C= |
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|precipitation colour = green |
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|Jan precipitation mm = 48 |
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|Feb precipitation mm = 68 |
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|Mar precipitation mm = 121 |
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|Apr precipitation mm = 85 |
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|May precipitation mm = 68 |
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|Jun precipitation mm = 39 |
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|Jul precipitation mm = 62 |
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|Aug precipitation mm = 76 |
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|Sep precipitation mm = 31 |
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|Oct precipitation mm = 33 |
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|Nov precipitation mm = 38 |
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|Dec precipitation mm = 54 |
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|unit precipitation days = 1.0 mm |
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|Jan precipitation days = 6.6 |
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|Feb precipitation days = 7.3 |
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|Mar precipitation days = 10.2 |
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|Apr precipitation days = 8.8 |
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|May precipitation days = 8.1 |
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|Jun precipitation days = 5.7 |
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|Jul precipitation days = 7.9 |
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|Aug precipitation days = 6.8 |
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|Sep precipitation days = 3.5 |
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|Oct precipitation days = 2.8 |
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|Nov precipitation days = 2.8 |
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|Dec precipitation days = 5.1 |
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|Jan humidity= 82 |
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|Feb humidity= 79 |
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|Mar humidity= 70 |
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|Apr humidity= 64 |
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|May humidity= 61 |
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|Jun humidity= 56 |
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|Jul humidity= 66 |
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|Aug humidity= 70 |
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|Sep humidity= 67 |
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|Oct humidity= 69 |
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|Nov humidity= 77 |
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|Dec humidity= 84 |
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|source = <ref name="indpune">{{Cite web |url=http://www.imdpune.gov.in/Temp_Extremes/histext2010.pdf |title=Extremes of India |publisher=www.indpune.gov.in |accessdate=11 January 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |
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|url = ftp://ftp.atdd.noaa.gov/pub/GCOS/WMO-Normals/RA-II/IN/42027.TXT |
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|title = Srinagar Climate Normals 1971-1986 |
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|publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]] |
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|accessdate = 11 January 2015}}</ref> |
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}} |
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==Economy== |
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[[File:Market boats on Mar Canal, Srinigar.jpg|thumb|Market boats on [[Nallah Mar|Mar Canal]] in Srinagar.]] |
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In November 2011, the [[City Mayors Foundation]]{{spaced ndash}}an advocacy think tank{{spaced ndash}}announced that Srinagar was the 92nd fastest growing urban areas in the world in terms of economic growth, based on actual data from 2006 onwards and projections to 2020.<ref>{{cite web |url= |
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http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/2011/Nov/18/srinagar-among-100-fastest-growing-cities-in-world-37.asp |title=Srinagar among 100 fastest growing cities in world |publisher=Greater Kashmir.com |date=17 November 2011 |accessdate=2011-11-20}}</ref> |
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===Tourism=== |
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Srinagar is one of several places that have been called the "[[list of places called Venice of the East|Venice of the East]]" or the "Kashmiri Venice"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=VloVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=B-YDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6789,6379670&dq=srinagar+venice+of+the+east&hl=en|title=The Sydney Morning Herald - Google News Archive Search|work=google.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/chicagotribune/access/585827282.html?dids=585827282:585827282&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:AI&type=historic&date=Jun+13%2C+1965&author=&pub=Chicago+Tribune&desc=Fabled+Kashmir%3A+An+Emerald+Set+Among+Pearls&pqatl=google |title=Fabled Kashmir: An Emerald Set Among Pearls |publisher=Pqasb.pqarchiver.com |date=1965-06-13 |accessdate=2010-07-26 | first=James | last=Holloway}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=The Earthtimes |url=http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/112701.html |title=Can Kashmir become 'Venice of the East' again? | Earth Times News |publisher=Earthtimes.org |date=2007-09-24 |accessdate=2010-07-26}}</ref> Lakes around the city include [[Dal Lake]]{{spaced ndash}}noted for its [[houseboat]]s{{spaced ndash}} and Nigeen Lake. Apart from Dal lake and Nigeen lake city is also famous for wular lake and manasbal lake to the north of srinagar. Wular lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. |
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[[File:Dal LakeVR.jpg|thumb|left|[[Dal Lake]] and the [[shikaras]].]]Srinagar has some [[Mughal gardens]], forming a part of those laid by the Mughal emperors across the Indian subcontinent. Those of Srinagar and its close vicinity include [[Chashma Shahi]] (the royal fountains); Pari Mahal (the palace of the fairies); [[Nishat Bagh]] (the garden of spring); [[Shalimar Gardens (Jammu and Kashmir)|Shalimar Bagh]]; the Naseem Bagh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kashmirtreks.in|title=KashmirTreks|publisher=kashmirtreks.in}}</ref> |
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[[Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden]] is a botanical garden in the city, set up in 1969.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.discoveredindia.com/jammu-and-kashmir/attractions/parks-and-gardens/jawaharlal-nehru-memorial-botanical-garden.htm|title=Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden|publisher=discoveredindia.com}}</ref> The Indian government has included these gardens under "Mughal Gardens of Jammu and Kashmir" in the tentative list for sites to be included in [[world Heritage sites]]. |
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The [[Sher Garhi Palace]] houses administrative buildings from the state government.{{citation needed|date=June 2012}} Another palace of the Maharajas, the [[Gulab Bhavan]], has now become the Lalit Grand Palace hotel.{{citation needed|date=June 2012}} |
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The [[Shankaracharya Temple]] which lies on a hill top in the middle of the city, besides the [[Kheer Bhawani]] Temple are important Hindu temples in the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://jktdc.in/contact-us/99.html|title=Shankaracharya Temple|publisher=jktdc.in}}</ref> |
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{{Wide image|Nigeen Lake pano.jpg|2000px|View of the houseboats on the west bank of [[Nageen Lake]] with the [[Pir Panjal Range]] in the background.}} |
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==Government and politics== |
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The city is run by the [[Mayor of Srinagar|Srinagar Municipal Corporation]] (SMC). The Srinagar district along with the adjoining Budgam district forms the Srinagar Parliamentary seat. |
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===Stray dog controversy=== |
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Srinagar's city government attracted brief international attention in March 2008 when it announced a mass poisoning program aimed at eliminating the city's population of stray dogs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23500493/|title=Indian authorities to poison 100K stray dogs - World news - South and Central Asia - NBC News|work=msnbc.com}}</ref> Officials estimate that 100,000 stray dogs roam the streets of the city, which has a human population of just under 900,000. In a survey conducted by an NGO, it was found that some residents welcomed this program, saying the city was overrun by dogs, while critics contended that more humane methods should be used to deal with the animals. |
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The situation has become alarming with local news reports coming up at frequent intervals highlighting people, especially children being mauled by street dogs.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/2012/May/12/stray-dogs-maul-over-3-dozen-55.asp|title=Stray dogs maul over 3 dozen|date=12 May 2012|newspaper=Greater Kashmir}}</ref> |
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==Demographics== |
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As of 2011 census Srinagar urban agglomeration had 1,273,312 population.<ref name=jkcensus11>{{cite web | url = http://www.census2011.co.in/census/state/jammu+and+kashmir.html | title = Jammu and Kashmir Population Census data 2011 | publisher = [[2011 census of India]] | accessdate = 7 December 2012}}</ref> Both the city and the urban agglomeration has average literacy rate of approximately 71%,<ref name=jkcensus11/> whereas the national average is 74.04%.<ref name=census11lr>{{cite web | url = http://www.census2011.co.in/literacy.php | title = Literacy in India | publisher = 2011 census of India | accessdate = 6 December 2012}}</ref> The child population of both the city and the urban agglomeration is approximately 12% of the total population.<ref name=jkcensus11/> Males constituted 53.0% and females 47.0% of the population. The sex ratio in the city area is 888 females per 1000 males, whereas in the urban agglomeration it is 880 per 1000,<ref name=jkcensus11/> and nationwide value of this ratio is 940.<ref name=census11sr>{{cite web | url = http://www.census2011.co.in/sexratio.php | title = Sex Ratio of India | publisher = 2011 census of India | accessdate = 7 December 2012}}</ref> The predominant religion of Srinagar is Islam with 95% of the population being Muslim. Hindus constitute the second largest religious group representing 4% of the population. The remaining 1% of the population are Sikhs, Buddhist and Jains.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/11399/13/13_chapter%205.pdf|title=General demographics of Srinagar (pdf file)}}</ref> |
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==Transport== |
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===Road=== |
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[[File:Srinagar City Road.PNG|thumb|left|100px|A dual lane road in Srinagar]] |
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[[File:Srinagar Airport Praying.jpg|thumb|right|Srinagar International Airport]] |
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[[File:Kashmir Valley Railway 143.jpg|thumb|A passenger train at Srinagar Railway Station]] |
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The city is served by many highways, including [[National Highway 1A (India)|National Highway 1A]] and [[National Highway 1D (India)|National Highway 1D]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://maps.newkerala.com/map-of-national-highways-in-india.php|title=Road Map with National Highways of India}}</ref> |
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===Air=== |
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[[Srinagar Airport]] (IATA code SXR) has regular domestic flights to [[Leh]], [[Jammu (city)|Jammu]], [[Chandigarh]] and [[Delhi]] and occasional international flights. The International flights terminal was inaugurated on 14 February 2009 with an Air India flight from [[Dubai]]. Hajj flights also operate from this airport to [[Saudi Arabia]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/Srinagar.jsp|title=Srinagar International Airport|publisher=Airports Authority of India}}</ref> |
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===Rail=== |
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{{main|Srinagar railway station}} |
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Srinagar is a station on the {{convert|119|km|abbr=on|0}} long [[Kashmir railway]] that started in October 2009 and connects Baramulla to Srinagar, [[Anantnag]] and [[Qazigund]]. The railway track also connects to [[Banihal]] across the [[Pir Panjal]] mountains through a newly constructed 11 km long Banihal tunnel, and subsequently to the Indian railway network after a few years. It takes approximately 9 minutes and 30 seconds for train to cross the tunnel. It is the longest rail tunnel in India. This railway system, proposed in 2001, is not expected to connect the Indian railway network until 2017 at the earliest, with a cost overrun of {{INR}}5,500 crore.<ref>{{cite news|title=Kashmir rail by 2017-end, cost overrun Rs 5,500 cr|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/kashmir-rail-by-2017end-cost-overrun-rs-5500-cr/article4170881.ece|accessdate=1 March 2013|newspaper=The Hindu Business Line|date=6 December 2012}}</ref> |
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The train also runs during heavy snow. |
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There are proposals to develop a metro system in the city.<ref>{{cite news|date=5 August 2013|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/now-metro-set-to-roll-into-kashmir/1151420/|title=Now, metro set to roll into Kashmir| newspaper=Indian Express}}</ref> The feasibility report for the [[Srinagar Metro]] is planned to be carried out by [[Delhi Metro Rail Corporation]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Hassan|first=Ishfaq-ul|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-omar-abdullah-plans-metro-in-jammu-srinagar-1346641|title=Omar Abdullah plans metro in Jammu, Srinagar|date=12 February 2010|newspaper=DNA|quote=“We will soon have the feasibility of metro services in both cities analysed by experts. Ideally, we would like DMRC to send a team and prepare a project report,” minister for urban development Nasir Aslam Wani said.}}</ref> |
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===Cable car=== |
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{{Srinagar Cable Car}} |
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In December 2013, the 594m cable car allowing people to travel to the shrine of the Sufi saint [[Hamza Makhdoom]] on [[Hari Parbat]] was unveiled. The project is run by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC), and has been envisioned for 25 years. An investment of {{INR}}30cr was made, and it is the second cable car in Kashmir after the [[Gulmarg Gondola]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/kashmir-gets-a-dream-ropeway/article5494377.ece | location=Chennai, India | work=The Hindu | title=Kashmir gets a dream ropeway | date=24 December 2013}}</ref> |
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===Boat=== |
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Whilst popular since the 7th century, water transport is now mainly confined to [[Dal Lake]], where [[shikara]]s (wooden boats) are used for local transport and tourism. There are efforts to revive transportation on the River [[Jhelum River|Jhelum]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1120507/jsp/nation/story_15460591.jsp#.Urm2EtJDtBM | location=Calcutta, India | work=The Telegraph | first=Muzaffar | last=Raina | title=Boat down the Jhelum | date=7 May 2012}}</ref> |
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==Culture== |
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[[File:Hazratbal.jpg|thumb|200px|Hazratbal Shrine built in around 1700 AD]][[File:Shankaracharya temple.jpg|thumb|The [[Shankaracharya temple]] built in around 200 BC]] |
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Like the state of [[Jammu and Kashmir]], Srinagar too has a distinctive blend of cultural heritage. Holy places in and around the city depict the historical cultural and religious diversity of the city as well as the Kashmir valley. |
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[[File:Bot garden mountain.jpg|thumb|200px|A view from Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden]] |
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===Places of worship=== |
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There are many religious holy places in Srinagar. They include: |
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* [[Hazratbal Shrine]], only domed mosque in the city.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://travelinos.com/churches/n75-25356-Hazratbal_Shrine |title=Hazratbal Shrine |first= |last= |work=travelinos.com |year=2013 |accessdate=23 January 2013}}</ref> |
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* [[Jama Masjid, Srinagar]], one of the oldest mosques in Kashmir |
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* Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi, located on [[Hari Parbat]] |
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* [[Aali Masjid]], in Eidgah Locality |
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* [[Hari Parbhat]] |
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* [[Kheer bhawani]] in Ganderbal |
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* [[Hari Parbat]] hill hosts shrine of Sharika Mata temple |
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* [[Shankaracharya temple]] |
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Additional structures include the [[Dastgeer Sahib]] shrine, Mazar-e-Shuhada, [[Roza Bal]] shrine, [[Khanqah-e-Moula|Khanqah of Shah Hamadan]], [[Pathar Masjid]] ("The Stone Mosque"), tomb of the mother of Zain-ul-abidin, tomb of Pir Haji Muhammad, Akhun Mulla Shah Mosque, cemetery of Baha-ud-din Sahib, tomb and Madin Sahib Mosque at Zadibal.<ref>[http://koausa.org/Monuments/Chapter4.html Chapter 4 of ''Ancient Monuments of Kashmir'' by Ram Chandra Kak (1933)]</ref> |
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===Performing arts=== |
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{{main|Music of Kashmir}} |
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==Education== |
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Srinagar is home to one of India's premier technical institutes;– The [[National Institute of Technology Srinagar]] (NIT;– SRI), formerly known as Regional Engineering College (REC Srinagar). It is one of the oldest NIT among the [[National Institutes of Technology]] that were established during 2nd Five year plan. Besides this the other Institutions/Colleges and Universities in Srinagar are: |
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* [[Government Medical College, Srinagar]] |
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* [[University of Kashmir]] |
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* [[Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir]] |
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* [[Sri Pratap College]] |
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* [[Islamia College of Science and Commerce, Srinagar]] |
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* [[Amar Singh College]] |
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==Sports== |
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The city is home to the [[Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium]], a stadium where international cricket matches have been played.<ref name=cricinfo>{{cite web | url = http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/team/match_results.html?class=2;id=559;type=ground | title = Records / Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, Srinagar / One-Day Internationals | publisher = [[ESPNCricinfo]] | accessdate = 7 December 2012}}</ref> |
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The first international match was played in 1983 in which West Indies defeated India and the last international match was played in 1986 in which Australia defeated India by six wickets. Since then no international matches have been played in the stadium due to the security situation (although the situation has now improved quite considerably). Srinagar has an outdoor stadium namely [[Bakshi Stadium]] for hosting football matches.<ref name=bakshitoi>{{cite news | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-07-16/india/32697338_1_football-clubs-bakshi-stadium-santosh-trophy | title = J&K stadium hosts football match after 25-year gap | publisher = [[Times of India]] | date = 16 July 2012 | accessdate = 7 December 2012}}</ref> It is named after [[Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad]]. The city has a golf course named [[Royal Springs Golf Course, Srinagar]] located on the banks of Dal lake, which is considered as one of the best golf courses of India.<ref name=golf>{{cite web|title=India|url=http://www.rtj2.com/index.php?option=com_mtree&task=listcats&cat_id=55&Itemid=37|publisher=Robert Trent Jones – Golf Architects|accessdate=21 September 2012}}</ref> Football is also followed by the youth of Srinagar and Polo ground is maintained for the particular sports recently.There are certain other sports being played but those are away from the main city like in Pahalgam (Water rafting), Gulmarg (skiing). |
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== See also == |
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* [[Kashmir conflict]] |
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* [[Downtown (Srinagar)]] |
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* [[Kashmir Shaivism]] |
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* [[Swami Lakshman Joo]] |
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* [[Dah Hanu]] |
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* [[List of State Protected Monuments in Jammu and Kashmir]] |
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* [[List of colleges in Srinagar]] |
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* [[Hazratbal]] |
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* [[Chashme Shahi]] |
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* [[Lal Chowk]] |
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* [[Nishat Bagh]] |
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* [[Shalimar Bagh, Srinagar]] |
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==References== |
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{{reflist|colwidth=30em}} |
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==External links== |
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{{commons category}} |
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{{Wikiquote}} |
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*{{Wikivoyage-inline}} |
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*[http://srinagar.nic.in/ Srinagar district administration] |
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*[http://jammukashmir.nic.in/ Official website of Jammu and Kashmir] |
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<!--start of Navigation boxes-->{{Clear}} |
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{{Kashmir Valley}} |
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{{State and Union Territory capitals of India}} |
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{{Jammu and Kashmir topics}} |
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<!--end of Navigation boxes--> |
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{{Authority control}} |
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{{Smart city}} |
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[[Category:Cities and towns in Srinagar district]] |
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[[Category:Srinagar| ]] |
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[[Category:Jammu and Kashmir]] |
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[[Category:Kashmir]] |
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[[Category:Municipal corporations in Jammu and Kashmir]] |
Revision as of 11:31, 20 March 2016
This article needs additional citations for verification. (May 2014) |
Srinagar
سرینگر | |
---|---|
Country | India |
State | Jammu and Kashmir |
District | Srinagar |
Area | |
• Metropolis | 294 km2 (114 sq mi) |
Elevation | 1,585 m (5,200 ft) |
Population (2011)[2] | |
• Metropolis | 1,192,792 |
• Rank | 31st |
• Density | 8,523/km2 (22,070/sq mi) |
• Metro | 1,273,312[1] |
Languages | |
• Official | Urdu[3] |
• Other Spoken languages | Hindi, Kashmiri, English |
• Regional | Kashmiri |
Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
PIN | 190 001 |
Telephone code | 0194 |
Vehicle registration | JK 01 |
Sex ratio | 888 ♀/ 1000 ♂ |
Literacy | 77.45% |
Distance from Delhi | 876 kilometres (544 mi) NW |
Distance from Mumbai | 2,275 kilometres (1,414 mi) NE (land) |
Climate | Cfa (Köppen) |
Precipitation | 710 millimetres (28 in) |
Avg. summer temperature | 23.3 °C (73.9 °F) |
Avg. winter temperature | 3.2 °C (37.8 °F) |
Website | www |
Srinagar /ˈsriˌnʌɡʌr/ ( ) is the largest city and the summer capital of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It lies on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus, and Dal and Anchar lakes. The city is famous for its gardens, waterfronts and houseboats. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dried fruits.
Origin of names
Folk etymology draws the city name from two Sanskrit words: śrī ("glory, prosperity", a name for the goddess Lakshmi) and nagar ("city"), which would make "City of Lakshmi" (or, "City of Prosperity").
However, the earliest records mention the name as siri-nagar which in turn is a local transformation of the original Sanskrit name sūrya-nagar, meaning "City of Sun" (or, of sun god).[4]
History
Ancient period
The Burzahom archaeological site located 10 km from Srinagar has revealed the presence of neolithic and megalithic cultures.[5]
According to Kalhana's 12th century text Rajatarangini, a king named Pravarasena II established a new capital named Pravarapura (also known as Pravarasena-pura). Based on topographical details, Pravarapura appears to be same as the modern city of Srinagar. Aurel Stein dates the king to sixth century CE.[6]
Kalhana also mentions that a king named Ashoka had earlier established a town called Srinagari. Kalhana describes this town in hyperbolic terms, stating that it had "9,600,000 houses resplendent with wealth".[7] According to Kalhana, this Ashoka reigned before 1182 BCE, and was a member of the dynasty founded by Godhara. Kalhana also states that this king had adopted the doctrine of Jina, constructed stupas and Shiva temples, and appeased Bhutesha (Shiva) to obtain his son Jalauka. Multiple scholars identify Kalhana's Ashoka with the 3rd century Buddhist Mauryan emperor Ashoka despite these discrepancies.[8] Although "Jina" is a term generally associated with Jainism, some ancient sources use it to refer to the Buddha.[7] Romila Thapar equates Jalauka to Kunala, stating that "Jalauka" is an erroneous spelling caused by a typographical error in Brahmi script.[8]: 130
Ashoka's Srinagari is generally identified with Pandrethan (near present-day Srinagar), although there is an alternative identification with a place on the banks of the Lidder River.[9] According to Kalhana, Pravarasena II resided at Puranadhishthana ("old town") before the establishment of Pravarapura; the name Pandrethan is believed to be derived from that word.[6][10] Accordining to V. A. Smith, the original name of the "old town" (Srinagari) was transferred to the new town.[11]
Srinagar in 14th to 19th centuries
The independent Hindu and the Buddhist rule of Srinagar lasted until the 14th century when the Kashmir valley, including the city, came under the control of the several Muslim rulers, including the Mughals. It was also the capital during the reign of Yusuf Shah Chak, an Independent Kashmiri ruler who was tricked by Akbar when Akbar failed to conquer Kashmir by force. Yusuf Shah Chak remains buried in Bihar. Akbar established Mughal rule in Srinagar and Kashmir valley.[12]
With the disintegration of the Mughal empire after the death of Aurangzeb in 1707, infiltrations to the valley from the Pashtun tribes increased, and the Durrani Empire ruled the city for several decades.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab province annexed a major part of the Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar, to his kingdom in the year 1814 and the city came under the influence of the Sikhs.
In 1846, the Treaty of Lahore was signed between the Sikh rulers and the British in Lahore. The treaty inter alia provided British de facto suzerainty over the Kashmir Valley and installed Gulab Singh as an independent and sovereign ruler of the region. Srinagar became part of his kingdom and remained until 1947 as one of several princely states in British India. The Maharajas choose Sher Garhi Palace as their main Srinagar residence.
Post Independence
After India and Pakistan's independence from Britain, villagers around the city of Poonch began an armed protest at continued rule of the Maharaja on 17 August 1947.[13] In view of the Poonch uprising, certain Pashtun tribes such as Mehsud and Afridi from mountainous region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of Pakistan and with its collusion, entered the Kashmir valley to capture it on 22 October 1947.[14] The Maharaja, who had refused to accede to either India or Pakistan in hopes of securing his own independent state, signed the instrument of accession in exchange for refuge on 26 October 1947, as Pakistani-backed tribesmen approached the outskirts of Srinagar. The Accession was accepted by India the next day. The government of India immediately airlifted Indian troops to Srinagar and prevented the tribesmen from reaching the city.[15]
In 1989, Srinagar became the focus of the Kashmiri uprising against Indian rule and the Indian military, which has been present since 1990, and the area continues to be a highly politicized hotbed of separatist activity with frequent spontaneous protests and strikes ("bandhs" in local parlance). On 19 January 1990, the Gawakadal massacre of at least 50 unarmed protestors by Indian forces,[16] and up to 280 by some estimates from eyewitness accounts,[17] set the stage for bomblasts, shootouts, and curfews that characterized Srinagar throughout the early and mid-1990s. Further massacres in the spring of 1990 in which 51 unarmed protesters were allegedly killed by Indian security forces in Zakura and Tengpora heightened anti-Indian sentiments in Srinagar.[18] As a result, bunkers and checkpoints are found throughout the city, although their numbers have come down in the past few years as militancy has declined. However, frequent protests still occur against Indian rule, such as the 22 August 2008 rally in which hundreds of thousands[19] of Kashmiri civilians protested against Indian rule in Srinagar.[20][21] Similar protests took place every summer for the next 4 years. In 2010 alone 120 unarmed protestors were killed by police and CRPF, most recently protest following the execution of Afzal Guru in February 2013.[22]
The city also saw increased violence against minorities, particularly the Kashmiri Hindus, starting from mid-80s and resulting in their ultimate exodus.[23][24][25] Posters were pasted to walls of houses of Pandits, telling them to leave or die, temples were destroyed and houses burnt;[26] but a very small minority of pandits still remains in the city.[27] The recent years have seen protests in Srinagar from local Kashmiri pandits for protection of their shrines in Kashmir and their rights.[28]
Geography
The city is located on both the sides of the Jhelum River, which is called Vyath in Kashmir. The river passes through the city and meanders through the valley, moving onward and deepening in the Dal Lake. The city is famous for its nine old bridges, connecting the two parts of the city.
There are a number of lakes and swamps in and around the city. These include the Dal, the Nigeen, the Anchar, Khushal Sar, Gil Sar and Hokersar.
Hokersar is a wetland situated near Srinagar. Thousands of migratory birds come to Hokersar from Siberia and other regions in the winter season. Migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia use wetlands in Kashmir as their transitory camps between September and October and again around spring. These wetlands play a vital role in sustaining a large population of wintering, staging and breeding birds.
Hokersar is 14 km (8.7 mi) north of Srinagar, and is a world class wetland spread over 13.75 km2 (5.31 sq mi) including lake and marshy area. It is the most accessible and well-known of Kashmir's wetlands which include Hygam, Shalibug and Mirgund. A record number of migratory birds have visited Hokersar in recent years.[citation needed]
Birds found in Hokersar—Migratory ducks and geese which include brahminy duck, tufted duck, gadwall, garganey, greylag goose, mallard, common merganser, northern pintail, common pochard, ferruginous pochard, red-crested pochard, ruddy shelduck, northern shoveller, common teal, and Eurasian wigeon.[citation needed]
Climate
Srinagar has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa), much cooler than what is found in much of the rest of India, due to its moderately high elevation and northerly position. The valley is surrounded by the Himalayas on all sides. Winters are cool, with daytime a January average of 2.5 °C (36.5 °F), and temperatures below freezing at night. Moderate to heavy snowfall occurs in winter and the only road that connects Srinagar with the rest of India may get blocked for a few days due to avalanches. Summers are warm with a July daytime average of 24.1 °C (75.4 °F). The average annual rainfall is around 710 millimetres (28 in). Spring is the wettest season while autumn is the driest. The highest temperature reliably recorded is 38.3 °C (100.9 °F) and the lowest is −20.0 °C (−4.0 °F).[29]
Climate data for Srinagar (1971–1986 normals) | |||||||||||||
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Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
Record high °C (°F) | 17.2 (63.0) |
20.6 (69.1) |
27.3 (81.1) |
31.1 (88.0) |
36.4 (97.5) |
37.8 (100.0) |
38.3 (100.9) |
36.7 (98.1) |
35.0 (95.0) |
33.9 (93.0) |
24.5 (76.1) |
18.3 (64.9) |
38.3 (100.9) |
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) | 7.0 (44.6) |
8.2 (46.8) |
14.1 (57.4) |
20.5 (68.9) |
24.5 (76.1) |
29.6 (85.3) |
30.1 (86.2) |
29.6 (85.3) |
27.4 (81.3) |
22.4 (72.3) |
15.1 (59.2) |
8.2 (46.8) |
19.7 (67.5) |
Daily mean °C (°F) | 2.5 (36.5) |
3.8 (38.8) |
8.8 (47.8) |
14.2 (57.6) |
17.7 (63.9) |
22.3 (72.1) |
24.1 (75.4) |
23.5 (74.3) |
19.8 (67.6) |
14.1 (57.4) |
8.1 (46.6) |
3.4 (38.1) |
13.5 (56.3) |
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) | −2 (28) |
−0.7 (30.7) |
3.4 (38.1) |
7.9 (46.2) |
10.8 (51.4) |
14.9 (58.8) |
18.1 (64.6) |
17.5 (63.5) |
12.1 (53.8) |
5.8 (42.4) |
0.9 (33.6) |
−1.5 (29.3) |
7.3 (45.1) |
Record low °C (°F) | −14.4 (6.1) |
−20.0 (−4.0) |
−6.9 (19.6) |
0.0 (32.0) |
1.0 (33.8) |
7.2 (45.0) |
10.3 (50.5) |
9.5 (49.1) |
4.4 (39.9) |
−1.7 (28.9) |
−7.8 (18.0) |
−12.8 (9.0) |
−20.0 (−4.0) |
Average precipitation mm (inches) | 48 (1.9) |
68 (2.7) |
121 (4.8) |
85 (3.3) |
68 (2.7) |
39 (1.5) |
62 (2.4) |
76 (3.0) |
31 (1.2) |
33 (1.3) |
38 (1.5) |
54 (2.1) |
723 (28.4) |
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) | 6.6 | 7.3 | 10.2 | 8.8 | 8.1 | 5.7 | 7.9 | 6.8 | 3.5 | 2.8 | 2.8 | 5.1 | 75.6 |
Average relative humidity (%) | 82 | 79 | 70 | 64 | 61 | 56 | 66 | 70 | 67 | 69 | 77 | 84 | 70 |
Source: [29][30] |
Economy
In November 2011, the City Mayors Foundation – an advocacy think tank – announced that Srinagar was the 92nd fastest growing urban areas in the world in terms of economic growth, based on actual data from 2006 onwards and projections to 2020.[31]
Tourism
Srinagar is one of several places that have been called the "Venice of the East" or the "Kashmiri Venice"[32][33][34] Lakes around the city include Dal Lake – noted for its houseboats – and Nigeen Lake. Apart from Dal lake and Nigeen lake city is also famous for wular lake and manasbal lake to the north of srinagar. Wular lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia.
Srinagar has some Mughal gardens, forming a part of those laid by the Mughal emperors across the Indian subcontinent. Those of Srinagar and its close vicinity include Chashma Shahi (the royal fountains); Pari Mahal (the palace of the fairies); Nishat Bagh (the garden of spring); Shalimar Bagh; the Naseem Bagh.[35]
Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden is a botanical garden in the city, set up in 1969.[36] The Indian government has included these gardens under "Mughal Gardens of Jammu and Kashmir" in the tentative list for sites to be included in world Heritage sites.
The Sher Garhi Palace houses administrative buildings from the state government.[citation needed] Another palace of the Maharajas, the Gulab Bhavan, has now become the Lalit Grand Palace hotel.[citation needed]
The Shankaracharya Temple which lies on a hill top in the middle of the city, besides the Kheer Bhawani Temple are important Hindu temples in the city.[37]
Government and politics
The city is run by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC). The Srinagar district along with the adjoining Budgam district forms the Srinagar Parliamentary seat.
Stray dog controversy
Srinagar's city government attracted brief international attention in March 2008 when it announced a mass poisoning program aimed at eliminating the city's population of stray dogs.[38] Officials estimate that 100,000 stray dogs roam the streets of the city, which has a human population of just under 900,000. In a survey conducted by an NGO, it was found that some residents welcomed this program, saying the city was overrun by dogs, while critics contended that more humane methods should be used to deal with the animals.
The situation has become alarming with local news reports coming up at frequent intervals highlighting people, especially children being mauled by street dogs.[39]
Demographics
As of 2011 census Srinagar urban agglomeration had 1,273,312 population.[40] Both the city and the urban agglomeration has average literacy rate of approximately 71%,[40] whereas the national average is 74.04%.[41] The child population of both the city and the urban agglomeration is approximately 12% of the total population.[40] Males constituted 53.0% and females 47.0% of the population. The sex ratio in the city area is 888 females per 1000 males, whereas in the urban agglomeration it is 880 per 1000,[40] and nationwide value of this ratio is 940.[42] The predominant religion of Srinagar is Islam with 95% of the population being Muslim. Hindus constitute the second largest religious group representing 4% of the population. The remaining 1% of the population are Sikhs, Buddhist and Jains.[43]
Transport
Road
The city is served by many highways, including National Highway 1A and National Highway 1D.[44]
Air
Srinagar Airport (IATA code SXR) has regular domestic flights to Leh, Jammu, Chandigarh and Delhi and occasional international flights. The International flights terminal was inaugurated on 14 February 2009 with an Air India flight from Dubai. Hajj flights also operate from this airport to Saudi Arabia.[45]
Rail
Srinagar is a station on the 119 km (74 mi) long Kashmir railway that started in October 2009 and connects Baramulla to Srinagar, Anantnag and Qazigund. The railway track also connects to Banihal across the Pir Panjal mountains through a newly constructed 11 km long Banihal tunnel, and subsequently to the Indian railway network after a few years. It takes approximately 9 minutes and 30 seconds for train to cross the tunnel. It is the longest rail tunnel in India. This railway system, proposed in 2001, is not expected to connect the Indian railway network until 2017 at the earliest, with a cost overrun of ₹5,500 crore.[46] The train also runs during heavy snow.
There are proposals to develop a metro system in the city.[47] The feasibility report for the Srinagar Metro is planned to be carried out by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation.[48]
Cable car
Srinagar Cable Car | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
In December 2013, the 594m cable car allowing people to travel to the shrine of the Sufi saint Hamza Makhdoom on Hari Parbat was unveiled. The project is run by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC), and has been envisioned for 25 years. An investment of ₹30cr was made, and it is the second cable car in Kashmir after the Gulmarg Gondola.[49]
Boat
Whilst popular since the 7th century, water transport is now mainly confined to Dal Lake, where shikaras (wooden boats) are used for local transport and tourism. There are efforts to revive transportation on the River Jhelum.[50]
Culture
Like the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar too has a distinctive blend of cultural heritage. Holy places in and around the city depict the historical cultural and religious diversity of the city as well as the Kashmir valley.
Places of worship
There are many religious holy places in Srinagar. They include:
- Hazratbal Shrine, only domed mosque in the city.[51]
- Jama Masjid, Srinagar, one of the oldest mosques in Kashmir
- Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi, located on Hari Parbat
- Aali Masjid, in Eidgah Locality
- Hari Parbhat
- Kheer bhawani in Ganderbal
- Hari Parbat hill hosts shrine of Sharika Mata temple
- Shankaracharya temple
Additional structures include the Dastgeer Sahib shrine, Mazar-e-Shuhada, Roza Bal shrine, Khanqah of Shah Hamadan, Pathar Masjid ("The Stone Mosque"), tomb of the mother of Zain-ul-abidin, tomb of Pir Haji Muhammad, Akhun Mulla Shah Mosque, cemetery of Baha-ud-din Sahib, tomb and Madin Sahib Mosque at Zadibal.[52]
Performing arts
Education
Srinagar is home to one of India's premier technical institutes;– The National Institute of Technology Srinagar (NIT;– SRI), formerly known as Regional Engineering College (REC Srinagar). It is one of the oldest NIT among the National Institutes of Technology that were established during 2nd Five year plan. Besides this the other Institutions/Colleges and Universities in Srinagar are:
- Government Medical College, Srinagar
- University of Kashmir
- Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir
- Sri Pratap College
- Islamia College of Science and Commerce, Srinagar
- Amar Singh College
Sports
The city is home to the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, a stadium where international cricket matches have been played.[53] The first international match was played in 1983 in which West Indies defeated India and the last international match was played in 1986 in which Australia defeated India by six wickets. Since then no international matches have been played in the stadium due to the security situation (although the situation has now improved quite considerably). Srinagar has an outdoor stadium namely Bakshi Stadium for hosting football matches.[54] It is named after Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad. The city has a golf course named Royal Springs Golf Course, Srinagar located on the banks of Dal lake, which is considered as one of the best golf courses of India.[55] Football is also followed by the youth of Srinagar and Polo ground is maintained for the particular sports recently.There are certain other sports being played but those are away from the main city like in Pahalgam (Water rafting), Gulmarg (skiing).
See also
- Kashmir conflict
- Downtown (Srinagar)
- Kashmir Shaivism
- Swami Lakshman Joo
- Dah Hanu
- List of State Protected Monuments in Jammu and Kashmir
- List of colleges in Srinagar
- Hazratbal
- Chashme Shahi
- Lal Chowk
- Nishat Bagh
- Shalimar Bagh, Srinagar
References
- ^ 2011 census of India
- ^ "Population in the age group 0–6 and literates by sex—urban agglomeration/town". Census of India 2001. Government of India. 27 May 2002. Retrieved 14 April 2007.
- ^ "Kashmiri: A language of India". Ethnologue. Retrieved 14 May 2008.
- ^ M. Monier Monier–Williams, "Śrīnagar", in: The Great Sanskrit–English Dictionary, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1899
- ^ A. R. Sankhyan (12 March 2008). "Surgery in Ancient India". In Helaine Selin (ed.). Encyclopaedia of the History of Science, Technology, and Medicine in Non-Western Cultures. Springer Science & Business Media. p. 2060. ISBN 978-1-4020-4559-2.
- ^ a b M. A. Stein (1989). Kalhana's Rajatarangini: a chronicle of the kings of Kasmir. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 439–441. ISBN 978-81-208-0370-1.
- ^ a b Nayanjot Lahiri (2015). Ashoka in Ancient India. Harvard University Press. pp. 378–380. ISBN 978-0-674-91525-1.
- ^ a b Ananda Guruge (1994). "King Aśoka and Buddhism: historical and literary studies". In Nuradha Seneviratna (ed.). King Asoka and Buddhism: Historical and Literary Studies. Buddhist Publication Society. pp. 185–186. ISBN 978-955-24-0065-0.
- ^ Vincent Arthur Smith (1998). Asoka, the Buddhist Emperor of India. Asian Educational Services. pp. 76–77. ISBN 978-81-206-1303-4.
- ^ Mohammad Ishaq Khan (1978). History of Srinagar, 1846-1947: A Study in Socio-cultural Change. Aamir Publications.
- ^ Vincent A. Smith (1999). The Early History of India. Atlantic Publishers & Dist. p. 162. ISBN 978-81-7156-618-1.
- ^ "Profile of Srinagar". Indian Heritages Cities Network. Retrieved 25 December 2014.
- ^ Umar, Baba (28 February 2013). "'Nehru didn't want to publicise the Poonch rebellion because it would have strengthened Pakistan's case'". Tehelka. Retrieved 1 March 2013.
- ^ The Story of Kashmir Affairs – A Peep into the Past
- ^ "Indo-Pakistan War of 1947". Peace Kashmir.
- ^ Peerzada, Ashiq (27 December 2012). "'90 Srinagar massacre: SHRC orders fresh probe". Hindustan Times. http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/Srinagar/90-Srinagar-massacre-SHRC-orders-fresh-probe/Article1-981312.aspx.
At least 52 people were allegedly killed in security forces' firing during a protest demonstration on January 21, 1990 near Gow Kadal, in heart of Srinagar.
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- ^ Dalrymple, William. Kashmir: The Scarred and the Beautiful. "The New York Review of Books." 1 May 2008.
- ^ "Kashmir marks anniversary of Gaw Kadal Massacre in 1990". Retrieved 21 January 2013.
- ^ "Muslims wage huge Kashmir protest". Chicago Tribune. 23 August 2008. Retrieved 1 March 2013.
A Kashmiri Muslim watches a protest march Friday by hundreds of thousands of Muslims in Srinagar, Indian Kashmir's main city. It was the largest protest against Indian rule in the Himalayan region in more than a decade
- ^ "Hundreds of Thousands March for Kashmir's Independence". The Epoch Times. 22 August 2008. Retrieved 1 March 2013.
Waving green Islamic flags and shouting "we want freedom", hundreds of thousands of Muslims marched peacefully in Indian Kashmir's main city on Friday
- ^ "Muslims in huge Kashmir protest". BBC. 22 August 2008. Retrieved 1 March 2013.
Hundreds of thousands of Muslims have taken part in a protest rally called by separatist leaders in Indian-controlled Kashmir's main city, Srinagar.
- ^ Hussein, AijazSt (12 February 2013). "India's hanging of Kashmiri man leads to fears of new unrest after 2 years of quiet". Star Tribune. Retrieved 1 March 2013.
In all three years, hundreds of thousands of young men took to the streets, hurling rocks and abuse at Indian forces.
- ^ "Paradise Lost". bbc.co.uk.
- ^ "Violence against Kashmiri hindus". kashmirforum.org.
- ^ "19/01/90: When Kashmiri Pandits fled Islamic terrorists". rediff.com. 19 January 2005. Retrieved 10 December 2015.
- ^ "Kashmiri Pandits offered three choices by Islamists". indiandefencereview.com.
- ^ "Kashmiri Pandits: Why we never fled Kashmir". aljazeera.com. 2 August 2011. Retrieved 10 December 2015.
- ^ "Kashmiri Pandits stage protest march in Srinagar". The Hindu. 4 June 2014. Retrieved 10 December 2015.
The protesters demanded minority status for the community and removal of nomenclature like migrants or non-migrants from official communication.
- ^ a b "Extremes of India" (PDF). www.indpune.gov.in. Retrieved 11 January 2015.
- ^ "Srinagar Climate Normals 1971-1986". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved 11 January 2015.
- ^ "Srinagar among 100 fastest growing cities in world". Greater Kashmir.com. 17 November 2011. Retrieved 20 November 2011.
- ^ "The Sydney Morning Herald - Google News Archive Search". google.com.
- ^ Holloway, James (13 June 1965). "Fabled Kashmir: An Emerald Set Among Pearls". Pqasb.pqarchiver.com. Retrieved 26 July 2010.
- ^ The Earthtimes (24 September 2007). "Can Kashmir become 'Venice of the East' again? | Earth Times News". Earthtimes.org. Retrieved 26 July 2010.
- ^ "KashmirTreks". kashmirtreks.in.
- ^ "Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden". discoveredindia.com.
- ^ "Shankaracharya Temple". jktdc.in.
- ^ "Indian authorities to poison 100K stray dogs - World news - South and Central Asia - NBC News". msnbc.com.
- ^ "Stray dogs maul over 3 dozen". Greater Kashmir. 12 May 2012.
- ^ a b c d "Jammu and Kashmir Population Census data 2011". 2011 census of India. Retrieved 7 December 2012.
- ^ "Literacy in India". 2011 census of India. Retrieved 6 December 2012.
- ^ "Sex Ratio of India". 2011 census of India. Retrieved 7 December 2012.
- ^ "General demographics of Srinagar (pdf file)" (PDF).
- ^ "Road Map with National Highways of India".
- ^ "Srinagar International Airport". Airports Authority of India.
- ^ "Kashmir rail by 2017-end, cost overrun Rs 5,500 cr". The Hindu Business Line. 6 December 2012. Retrieved 1 March 2013.
- ^ "Now, metro set to roll into Kashmir". Indian Express. 5 August 2013.
- ^ Hassan, Ishfaq-ul (12 February 2010). "Omar Abdullah plans metro in Jammu, Srinagar". DNA.
"We will soon have the feasibility of metro services in both cities analysed by experts. Ideally, we would like DMRC to send a team and prepare a project report," minister for urban development Nasir Aslam Wani said.
- ^ "Kashmir gets a dream ropeway". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 24 December 2013.
- ^ Raina, Muzaffar (7 May 2012). "Boat down the Jhelum". The Telegraph. Calcutta, India.
- ^ "Hazratbal Shrine". travelinos.com. 2013. Retrieved 23 January 2013.
- ^ Chapter 4 of Ancient Monuments of Kashmir by Ram Chandra Kak (1933)
- ^ "Records / Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, Srinagar / One-Day Internationals". ESPNCricinfo. Retrieved 7 December 2012.
- ^ "J&K stadium hosts football match after 25-year gap". Times of India. 16 July 2012. Retrieved 7 December 2012.
- ^ "India". Robert Trent Jones – Golf Architects. Retrieved 21 September 2012.
External links
- Srinagar travel guide from Wikivoyage
- Srinagar district administration
- Official website of Jammu and Kashmir