Projects aimed at conservation, tourism promotion & improved visitor amenities
Srinagar, June 19: In a significant move aimed at preserving the region’s religious and cultural heritage, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved projects worth Rs 2.94 crore for the restoration, preservation and development of three prominent religious sites in Uri area of Baramulla district.
The approvals have been accorded by the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, under a heritage conservation initiative intended to improve infrastructure and safeguard historically significant sites.
According to official orders issued by Director Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha (JKAS), administrative approval has been granted for the development of amenities, including a park, at Baba Fareed shrine at Garkote, Uri, at an estimated cost of Rs 80 lakh.
The project aims to enhance facilities for devotees and visitors while improving the overall aesthetic appeal of the revered shrine. Besides landscaping and park development, the project will include installation of information boards detailing the site’s history in English, Hindi and Urdu, along with signboards and facilities for universal accessibility.
In another major initiative, the government has sanctioned Rs 1.10 crore for the revival, restoration, preservation and maintenance of the historic Pandav Mandir at Lagama, Uri. The temple is considered an important cultural and religious landmark and the restoration project is expected to help preserve its architectural and historical significance for future generations.
Similarly, administrative approval has been accorded for the revival, restoration, preservation and maintenance of Kali Mata Mandir at Lagama, Uri, at an estimated cost of Rs 1.04 crore. The project will focus on conserving the shrine’s heritage value while improving visitor amenities and infrastructure around the site.
Officials said the projects are part of the government’s broader efforts to protect heritage assets and promote religious tourism in border areas of north Kashmir.
The approvals are subject to strict adherence to government procedures and guidelines, including compliance with General Financial Rules (GFR) 2017. Authorities have directed that all codal formalities and necessary clearances be completed before commencement of work.
The executing agencies have been instructed to ensure timely tendering, maintain regular monitoring of project progress, and submit geo-tagged photographs before, during and after execution of the works. Monthly physical and financial progress reports will also be mandatory.
Notably, all three projects will include accessibility measures such as ramps and specially designed washrooms for persons with disabilities, reflecting the government’s emphasis on inclusive development. Officials have been directed to complete the tendering process within 14 days of the issuance of administrative approval orders.
