Chief Secretary Lays Foundation Stone for Restoration of Historic Dharamshala at Mata Kantiyani Bhagwati Asthapan in Kulgam

Kulgam, August 2: Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, Atal Dulloo(IAS), on Sunday laid the foundation stone for the revival and restoration of the historic Dharamshala at Mata Kantiyani Bhagwati Asthapan, Kakran, in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district.
The restoration project, being executed by the Public Works Department (R&B) Division, D.H. Pora, has been sanctioned at an estimated cost of ₹2.84 crore. The initiative aims to preserve the religious, cultural, and historical significance of the Dharamshala while upgrading facilities for pilgrims and visitors.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary underscored the importance of conserving heritage sites and strengthening public infrastructure. He said the restoration of the Dharamshala would not only enhance the experience of devotees but also promote religious tourism and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.He stressed the need for timely completion of the project while maintaining the highest standards of quality and ensuring that the heritage value of the historic structure is preserved.Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam(IAS), briefed the Chief Secretary on the proposed restoration works and highlighted the district administration’s ongoing efforts to preserve heritage assets and improve civic infrastructure across the district.Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, highlighted the cultural and historical significance of the Dharamshala and described the restoration project as a major step towards safeguarding the region’s rich heritage for future generations.
During his visit, the Chief Secretary also interacted with members of the Kashmiri Pandit community and reiterated the administration’s commitment to preserving the Union Territory’s shared cultural and religious heritage.
The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Kulgam Anayat Ali Choudhary (IPS), Additional Deputy Commissioner Altaf Ahmad Khan(JKAS), Additional Deputy Commissioner Vikar Ahmad Gari(JKAS), Assistant Commissioner Development Bilal Ahmed Kamgar(JKAS), Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B) Division D.H. Pora, officers of the district administration, officials of the PWD (R&B) Division, representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community, and other concerned officials.(CNS)