KULGAM, Aug 2: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the restoration and revival of the historic Dharamshala at Mata Kantiyani Bhagwati Asthapan in Kakran area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, reaffirming the government’s commitment to preserving the Union Territory’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
The restoration project, being executed by the Public Works Department (Roads and Buildings) Division, D.H. Pora, has been approved at an estimated cost of ₹2.84 crore. The initiative aims to restore the historic structure while upgrading facilities for devotees and visitors, ensuring the conservation of its religious, cultural and historical significance.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo stressed the importance of safeguarding heritage sites and strengthening public infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. He said the restoration of the Dharamshala would not only enhance the experience of pilgrims visiting the shrine but would also promote religious tourism and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.
He directed the executing agency to ensure the timely completion of the project while maintaining the highest standards of quality and preserving the heritage value of the historic structure.
During the visit, the Chief Secretary also interacted with members of the Kashmiri Pandit community and discussed issues related to the preservation of their religious and cultural heritage.
Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, briefed the Chief Secretary about the proposed restoration works and highlighted the district administration’s ongoing efforts to conserve heritage assets and improve civic infrastructure across the district.
Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the historical and cultural importance of the Dharamshala, describing it as a significant symbol of the region’s rich heritage.
The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Kulgam Anayat Ali Choudhary, Additional Deputy Commissioner Altaf Ahmad Khan, Assistant Commissioner Development, Executive Engineer PWD (R&B) Division D.H. Pora, other senior officers of the district administration, officials of the PWD (R&B), representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community and other concerned dignitaries.(KNC)
