Manoj Sinha unveils the inauguration plaque for infrastructure upgradation and beautification works at the revered Shiv Khori Shrine. The project, supported by JSW Group under CSR, aims to enhance facilities and improve the pilgrimage experience for devotees.
Manoj Sinha unveils the plaque during the inauguration (Image Source: Dynamite News)
Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday inaugurated the infrastructure upgradation and beautification works at the revered Shiv Khori Shrine in Reasi district, aimed at enhancing facilities for pilgrims and boosting spiritual tourism in the region, reports Dynamite News correspondent.
The infrastructure upgrade and beautification works at the holy Shiv Khori Shrine were completed by JSW Group under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to Sajjan Jindal, Chairman and Managing Director of JSW Group, and his team for their contribution to the project. “I see this as a profound act of kindness for humanity’s shared heritage,” he said.
The LG said that since the signing of the 2023 MoU with JSW Group, the administration had been awaiting the completion of the project. “Shiv Khori’s awakening begins today. We have not only upgraded infrastructure but strengthened faith itself. I have always believed that the light of spirituality must be accessible to every person in society,” he said.
He added that the upgradation marks the revival of ancient spiritual centres and reflects the fulfillment of the long-standing aspirations of devotees. Sinha said that several initiatives, including the development of facilities for the Amarnath Yatra and efforts by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, are aimed at transforming the region into a vibrant spiritual corridor.
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that making Jammu and Kashmir a vibrant spiritual centre of the country remains one of his key objectives. “After five years of sustained efforts, the dream is no longer distant. Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a genuine spiritual, cultural and social renaissance and is re-emerging as a centre of knowledge, art, music and philosophy,” he said.
Calling upon the youth to maintain a balance between inner and outer life, he urged them to connect with the spiritual heritage of the region.
Highlighting upcoming facilities for pilgrims, the LG said a new helipad at the shrine is expected to be completed this month and heli-services may start from April. He added that a protective track shed will be constructed to safeguard pilgrims from unpredictable weather and shooting stones.
He further said that an alternative track between Ram Mandir and Shiv Khori will be built to ease congestion during peak seasons. Repair and renovation work of the Ransoo Shrine building and existing tracks will also be undertaken, along with improved sanitation facilities, a serai and langar facility for pilgrims.
The LG also suggested introducing a sound and light show to enhance the pilgrimage experience and said the feasibility of a ropeway project could also be explored with consensus.
“We are committed to creating a thriving ecosystem where local traders, artisans, youth and women can access new opportunities, ensuring prosperity for every family,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also flagged off a garbage collection vehicle donated by Jammu and Kashmir Bank to the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board.
The inaugurated works include renovation of Shivam Dwar (Darshani Deodi), repair and renovation of Mahadev Bhawan including the Yatra Registration Counter, refurbishment of the existing ghat near Shivam Dwar, construction of gazebos near the bathing ghat and Shani Mandir, toilet complexes, renovation of the medical kiosk near Ram Mandir, construction of a pony shed at Ransoo near Darshani Deodi and installation of lighting at various locations.
MLA Reasi Kuldeep Raj Dubey, JSW Group CMD Sajjan Jindal, Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Chairman Shiv Khori Shrine Board Ramesh Kumar, DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range Sarah Rizvi, Deputy Commissioner Reasi Kumar Abhishek, senior officials and a large number of devotees attended the ceremony.
