Bageshwar District Magistrate Mr. Ashish Bhatgain (2007-batch IAS officer) conducted a review meeting on Tuesday at the Collectorate auditorium to assess the ongoing work under the Mandir Mala Mission. During the meeting, the DM issued clear directives to expedite redevelopment projects concerning two major temples in the region — Bagnath and Baijnath — and instructed departments to act swiftly on pending proposals and estimates.
Redevelopment Proposals Worth Rs. 36 Crore
In the review, it was reported that:
- Rs. 23 crore has been proposed for the comprehensive redevelopment of the Bagnath temple complex and its surrounding areas.
- Rs. 13 crore has been earmarked for the Baijnath temple complex.
The District Magistrate instructed the District Tourism Officer to immediately forward the redevelopment proposals to the state government for approval. Simultaneously, the Rural Works Department (RWD) was asked to prepare cost estimates for constructing a tin shed from Bhadrakali temple to the main road, to enhance visitor convenience and protect pilgrims from weather-related hardships.
Vision for Heritage and Pilgrimage Development
During the meeting, District Tourism Officer P.K. Gautam (2009-batch IAS officer) presented a detailed action plan aimed at giving the two iconic temples a grand and accessible new look. The presentation included architectural improvements, accessibility enhancements, and upgraded visitor amenities.
DM Mr. Bhatgain emphasized that the Mandir Mala Mission is not merely an infrastructure program but a spiritual and cultural rejuvenation initiative. He stated that the mission’s core objective is to revive religious tourism by systematically restoring and developing ancient temples across the Kumaon division.
Focus Areas of the Mission
The Mandir Mala Mission includes:
- Modernizing access roads leading to temples.
- Expanding passenger and pilgrim facilities.
- Beautification and preservation of temple surroundings.
- Enhancing the overall tourist and pilgrimage experience through a sustainable, long-term development plan.
The action plan is designed with a 30-year vision, taking into account the anticipated growth in pilgrim footfall and evolving needs of religious tourism.
The District Magistrate reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to turning Kumaon’s spiritual heritage into a model of well-managed, eco-conscious tourism, aligning with the broader goals of the Manaskhand Mandir Mala Mission envisioned by the Uttarakhand government.
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