Jammu, March 7:
In a landmark moment for the spiritual landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the extensive infrastructure upgradation and beautification works at the holy Shri Shiv Khori Shrine in Reasi District.
The project, completed by the JSW Group under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, marks a significant milestone in the Union Territory’s ongoing “spiritual renaissance.”
A “Profound Act of Kindness” for Shared Heritage
Addressing a large gathering of devotees and dignitaries, LG Sinha expressed deep gratitude to Shri Sajjan Jindal, CMD of JSW Group, for fulfilling the MoU signed in 2023.
“I see this as a profound act of kindness for humanity’s shared heritage. We have not only upgraded infrastructure but fortified faith itself,” the LG remarked.
He emphasized that the restoration of these ancient traditions is the fulfillment of the “vibrant dreams of our ancestors” and a testament to the perseverance of modern-day devotees.
Key Infrastructure Upgrades at Shiv Khori
The beautification project has transformed the pilgrimage experience with several key additions:
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Renovated Entry Points: A complete overhaul of Shivam Dwar (Darshani Deodi).
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Refurbished Ghats: Upgraded bathing areas near Shivam Dwar and Shani Mandir.
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Pilgrim Facilities: Renovation of Mahadev Bhawan, a new Yatra Registration Counter, and medical kiosks.
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Comfort & Logistics: New Gazebos, toilet complexes, a dedicated Pony Shed at Ransoo, and high-intensity lighting across the tracks.
The Road Ahead: Helipads and Ropeways
The Lieutenant Governor also unveiled an ambitious roadmap to enhance safety and accessibility for the rising number of pilgrims:
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Heli-Services: A new helipad is set for completion this month, with services expected to commence in April 2026.
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Safety Measures: A protective track shed is being fast-tracked to shield devotees from unpredictable weather and shooting stones.
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Decongestion: An alternative track between Ram Mandir and Shiv Khori will be constructed to manage heavy festive footfalls.
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Modern Experience: Proposals for a Sound and Light Show and the feasibility of a Ropeway project are currently being explored.
A Vision for a Spiritual Heart
LG Sinha reiterated his objective to establish Jammu Kashmir as the “vibrant, breathing spiritual heart of the nation.” He noted that from the Baba Amarnath Yatra upgrades to the vision of a “spiritual corridor” at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, the region is re-emerging as a global center for knowledge, philosophy, and dharma.
A Message to the Youth: The LG called upon the younger generation to find balance between their inner and outer lives by connecting with these sacred spaces. “That energy does not belong to the past. It flows still—and it is yours to draw from,” he said.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The ceremony was attended by Shri Sajjan Jindal (CMD, JSW Group), Shri Kuldeep Raj Dubey (MLA Reasi), Shri Ramesh Kumar (Divisional Commissioner Jammu), and senior officials from the police and civil administration. During the event, the LG also flagged off a new garbage collection vehicle donated by J&K Bank to maintain the sanctity and cleanliness of the shrine.
