Ringing bells at renovated Clock Tower at Lal Chowk gives ‘London like feel’

Srinagar: Ringing bells and the sound produced by them after every hour at the renovated historic clock tower popularly known as Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk doesn’t only attract the passers-by but also brings back the old memories for many.

The newly constructed tower is also becoming selfie point for not just locals but also for the tourists as well. “The new look of Clock Tower is becoming a major point of attraction for one and all,” said a shopkeeper, while speaking to the news agency, He said that the new tower resembles London’s famous tower—the Elizabeth Tower or the Big Ben.

Ghulam Mohiudin, a shopkeeper said that the first Clock Tower at Lal Chowk was constructed by the Baja Company many decades ago for advertisement purposes. “Gradually, the spot gained importance and became a historic sport for many reasons,” he said. “Bells ringing at the newly Clock Tower alerts everyone and gives a sign of normalcy. The sound that comes from the tower after every hour attracts all—locals as well as tourists.”

Shabir Ahmed, a fruit seller, said that the new look of the tower is an attraction. “One feels as if we are in London. The new look of the clock tower is indeed an attractive one,” he said.

Pertinently, Chief Engineer, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), Iftikhar Kakroo had earlier 99 percent work on the clock tower has been completed and the project is set to be inaugurated before the 77th Independence-Day on August 15.

“The inauguration of the project that is coming up in the European design, the people are getting attracted towards the spot and some of the pictures of the structure, has also gone viral on the social media platforms,” he added.