Govt plans infra development at key religious shrines

Srinagar, Mar 17: The Jammu and Kashmir government has acknowledged the need for improved infrastructure at key religious shrines, including Mata Bala Sundri Nagri, Kiley Wali Mata Lakhanpur, and the ancient Airwan Temple, which collectively attract over 10 lakh pilgrims annually.
In response to a question by MLA Dr. Bharat Bhushan in the Assembly, the government said that the annual footfall at these shrines is significant, with Kiley Wali Mata Lakhanpur receiving approximately 1.5 lakh visitors, Airwan Temple drawing around 5 lakh, and Bala Sundri Temple witnessing 3 lakh pilgrims every year.
Despite the high number of devotees, the government admitted that the Tourism Department has not constructed any dormitory or guest house facilities at these sites. However, as per reports from the Divisional Commissioner Jammu, a hall is available at the Airwan Temple, which serves as a resting place for pilgrims and visitors.
To address the issue, the government announced that a dormitory at Mata Bala Sundri Nagri, Parole, has been proposed for the financial year 2025-26 under the Capex budget. The project will be taken up subject to the availability of land, funds, and necessary approvals.
The Tourism Department has already undertaken development works worth Rs 17.77 lakh under the Capex budget for the current financial year 2023-24. For the 2024-25 financial year, signages are also being installed along the road from Bohra to Mata Bala Sundri Temple, Billawar, to enhance accessibility for pilgrims.