SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government has sanctioned over Rs 17 crore for the renovation and upgradation of 17 temples and shrines in the districts of Anantnag and Pulwama in South Kashmir, Jammu based newspaper the Daily Excelsior reported. These structures, many of which hold historical and religious significance, suffered extensive damage during the years of turmoil. The funding has been approved by the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums following recommendations from the respective Deputy Commissioners.
Among the major allocations, Rs 1.07 crore has been sanctioned for the ancient Mamaleshwar temple in Pahalgam, Anantnag, and Rs 1.60 crore for the historic Shiva Bhagwati temple at Akingam. Other significant allocations in Anantnag include Rs 77.67 lakh for the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, Rs 92.95 lakh for the Papran Naag shrine in Salia, and Rs 46.69 lakh for the Mata Raagnya Bhagwati shrine in Khiram.
The Kheerbhawani temple at Logripora, Ashmuqam, will receive the largest allocation of Rs 3.25 crore for its construction, while Rs 3.22 crore has been set aside for the Lokbhawan shrine in Larkipora, which had been completely razed during the unrest. Additionally, Rs 69.75 lakh has been allocated for the development of the Karkut Nag shrine in Salia.
In Pulwama, Rs 4.09 crore has been approved for the preservation and maintenance of the Neolithic site at Gufkral, Tral. For the Shree Shideshwar temple in Drangbal Pampore, which holds special significance as a stop for the holy Amarnath Ji yatra, Rs 28.34 lakh will be provided. The holy Shiv temple in Drangbal will receive Rs 38.82 lakh, and Rs 12.70 lakh has been allocated for a temple in Middora, Awantipora. Other allocations include Rs 17.18 lakh for the renovation of a temple in Trichal and Rs 19.60 lakh for holy temples in Tahab, Pulwama.
