Srinagar: In a move that has left locals surprised and concerned, the Floriculture Department has stopped allowing morning exercises and walks at Badamwari, a historic garden located in the Kathidarwaza area of Srinagar’s Old City.
For decades, Badamwari has served as a central hub for fitness enthusiasts, attracting people of all ages—from young athletes to elderly residents—who gather each morning for walks, jogging, and group exercises. The garden has long been associated with promoting a healthy lifestyle in the Old City, helping foster a strong culture of physical fitness.
This year marks the first time such restrictions have been imposed, disrupting a routine that many residents have followed for generations. Even during challenging periods in the past, locals recall that access to the park for morning exercise was never restricted.
The decision has left hundreds of regular visitors without a dedicated space for their daily fitness routines. Many have been forced to relocate to alternative spots such as Makhdoom Sahib, while others have shifted to areas like Pokhribal. Some, however, have reportedly discontinued their exercise routines altogether.
The impact is particularly significant during the spring season, when Badamwari traditionally sees a surge in visitors, including new participants inspired to adopt healthier habits.
“Hundreds of people throng to Badamwari every morning from various places of Srinagar. It has given trend to forming of number of health clubs which is good trend but this act of Floriculture is sending wrong message,” said Zahid Kota of Badamwari Club.
Highlighting the historical importance of the garden, local resident Noor Mohammad Khan added,
“Badamwari carries a rich and enduring legacy. It has long been the cradle of a health-conscious culture in Kashmir—not just over the past few decades, but for more than 60 years. As far back as the 1950s, figures like the legendary Rehman Saudaghar, a close associate of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, would lead wrestling drills and physical exercises here. At a time when early morning fitness was largely unknown in other parts of Kashmir, people from Downtown were already flocking to Badamwari, making it a pioneering hub of physical culture in the Valley.”
Residents believe that restricting access to such a vital public space sends a negative signal, especially at a time when promoting fitness and healthy lifestyles is crucial. With growing concerns around substance abuse in the region, locals argue that discouraging positive activities like morning exercise could have unintended consequences.
Morning walkers and members of local fitness groups have appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene and restore access to the park for public health activities.
