SMVDSB initiates work on Shankaracharya Temple after three decades

KATRA: The work of Shankaracharya Temple which was initiated in the year 1990 and got stopped subsequently owing to several issues has been spearheaded by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board after three decades to complete the Shrine structure as part of its efforts to develop the religious circuit in Katra and surrounding areas.

In this regard, a team of Shrine Board with technical experts comprising Dr. Ashok Bhan, Member, Shrine Board; Anshul Garg, CEO; Navneet Singh, Addl. CEO; K.N Rai, Technical Advisor; Vishwajeet Singh, Dy. CEO, Prof. Mandeep Singh, School of Planning and Architecture, Executive Engineers, SMVDSB alongwith the team and other concerned officers of Board today visited the site, and reviewed the present condition of the temple located on the hillock at the eastern side of the Katra town. Some local stakeholders were also present at the site.

Noteworthy that, due directions for rejuvenation and development of temple complex have been issued by the Hon’ble LG, JK UT who is also the Chairman of SMVDSB, in the interest of pilgrims and overall development of Katra and adjacent areas.

The Shrine Board aspires to establish a grand Shivling along with the renovation of the building premises side-by-side taking care of the ecology of the area. Besides laying of tiles on the track leading to the Shankaracharya Temple and the installation of LED lights with poles, the condition of the access road/ track leading to the temple will be improved. In addition, basic infrastructure development shall include provision of viewpoints enroute, adequate, safe and clean drinking water, hygienic food, medical and sanitation facilities.

Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board said that the construction of the temple will be commencing soon as per the directions of the Hon’ble LG and in tune with the aspiration of the local residents. The Temple would not only act as any other spiritual destination for pilgrims visiting the holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji but would also boost the economy of Katra Town. He also added that a glimpse of Dogra folk art and culture will also be seen in the construction of this temple.