The Punjab Government has launched a major project for the cleaning and restoration of the holy sarovar at Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal, popularly known as Ram Tirath. Work on the project is expected to begin shortly.
The sarovar restoration project, estimated at Rs 3.74 crore, is part of a larger development package worth Rs 17.72 crore aimed at upgrading infrastructure and facilities at the revered religious site.
Bal Jogi Pragat Nath, chairman of the advisory board of the Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal Shrine Board, said the project will include desilting of the sarovar, laying clean sand and carrying out other improvement works. He added that the tendering process has been completed and work will commence soon.
Pragat Nath said that, apart from the sarovar restoration, around Rs 2.80 crore will be spent on painting and polishing the main temple, repairing pillars along the approach road and conserving sandstone structures.
Additional works worth Rs 2.42 crore will focus on repairing stonework in Sangat Hall and renovating Langar Hall, sarai and Panorama complex. Devotee facilities will also be upgraded with new furniture, air conditioners and other amenities at a cost of Rs 1.74 crore.
The government is further investing over Rs 5 crore to enhance the capacity of the sewage treatment plant, renovate bathrooms, install new air conditioners and geysers and strengthen fire safety systems. Pragat Nath said there was no shortage of funds for the shrine’s development.
Speaking on the occasion, Aam Aadmi Party leader Sonia Mann said the government remained committed to the beautification and overall development of the sacred site.
Before the commencement of the cleaning work, Pragat Nath, Sonia Mann and other leaders ceremonially collected and preserved the sacred water of the sarovar so that it could be returned after the restoration process.
Chairman of the Safai Karamchari Commission Chandan Grewal and Chairman of the Dalit Development Board Vijay Danav also expressed gratitude to the government for undertaking the development of the historic pilgrimage site.
