Kedarnath Dham: Kedarpuri was decorated with reconstruction works, Chief Minister Dhami arrived for an inspection
Summary
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami arrived at Kedarnath Dham this morning to conduct an on-site inspection of the ongoing reconstruction projects. The government has allocated a budget of Rs 148 crore to improve residential facilities for the pilgrims visiting Baba Kedar. Additionally, there are plans to construct a heliport at the base camp to accommodate the pilgrims and rights holders. This visit demonstrates the Chief Minister’s commitment to ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for the visitors to this sacred site.
Expansion
Following the devastating deluge in Kedarnath ten years ago, Kedarpuri has undergone significant reconstruction and beautification efforts. The wounds inflicted by the disaster are being healed through the visionary project initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the first phase alone, reconstruction works amounting to Rs 225 crore were carried out, but there is still much more to be accomplished. Today, on a Friday morning, Chief Minister Dhami arrived at Kedarnath Dham for a terrestrial inspection, highlighting the continued commitment to monitor and oversee the progress of the reconstruction efforts.
The second phase of reconstruction in Kedarnath involves 21 ongoing construction projects with a budget of Rs 197 crore. These projects aim to restore the infrastructure and facilities that were destroyed during the devastating disaster that occurred on 16 June 2013, leaving only the Kedarnath temple standing. The reconstruction efforts also prioritize the provision of residential facilities for over 148 crore pilgrims. This tragedy claimed the lives of thousands of people, and the ongoing reconstruction endeavors are crucial in rebuilding the area and ensuring a safer future for pilgrims and residents alike.
The reconstruction of Kedarnath is being carried out in three phases. In the first phase, various important aspects were addressed, including the expansion of the temple complex, the establishment of Gol Plaza near Sangam, and the laying of cut stone along the path leading to the temple. Additionally, security measures were taken along the banks of the Mandakini River, and construction work took place on Central Street, the Samadhi of Adi Guru Shankaracharya, Saraswati Astha Path, and the Ghat. Furthermore, a protective wall was constructed for the buildings surrounding the temple complex, and a meditation cave was also built. The ongoing second phase focuses on reconstruction projects amounting to Rs 197 crore.