Three heritage monuments in Reasi declared protected under J&K Preservation Act

Jammu, Apr 09: The government on Wednesday informed the Legislative Assembly that three heritage monuments in Reasi district have been declared as protected under the Jammu and Kashmir Ancient Monuments Preservation Act. It include Bhim Garh Fort, Salal Fort, and the residence of the legendary Dogra military commander, General Zorawar Singh.
The information was provided in a written reply to Starred Question by MLA Kuldeep Raj Dubey. The query sought details on declared heritage sites in Reasi, the government’s intent to restore General Zorawar Singh’s residence, and the status of beautification works at Bhim Garh Fort.
All three monuments have been formally protected under the provisions of the J&K Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1977 Smvt (1920 AD) as amended in 2010.
On the specific query regarding General Zorawar Singh’s residence, the Culture Department revealed that a preservation and restoration plan has already been prepared at an estimated cost of ₹104.92 lakh. However, the execution has been stalled due to a legal dispute.
“The locals have not provided the required access road to the site and the matter is currently sub judice,” the reply stated, adding that the department is “vigorously pursuing the matter in the court of law.”
In response to a question about Bhim Garh Fort, the department said it is also a protected monument under the same legislation. Restoration and beautification works are underway, with ₹30.49 lakh already spent. An additional ₹22.89 lakh has been released during the current financial year 2024–25, against a total project estimate of ₹66.28 lakh.
The government’s response indicates a focused push toward heritage conservation in the Reasi region, although legal and logistical challenges continue to impede progress on key restoration efforts.