Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday unveiled a series of major initiatives for the development of Katra, including the construction of a grand temple dedicated to Adi Shankaracharya and the establishment of an International Museum of Goddess Devi.
Addressing the public, Sinha said several facilities have already been set up in Katra and announced plans to launch helicopter services from Katra to the Shiv Khori cave shrine of Lord Shiva, expected to be operational within three months.
Shankaracharya Temple and Goddess Museum
Sinha laid the foundation stone of the Shankaracharya temple, a project first conceived in 1967, describing it as a state-of-the-art facility. The initiative follows the proposed International Museum of Goddess Devi, which will feature replicas and representations of major ‘devi’ pilgrimage sites from across India at Katra, the base camp of Mata Vaishno Devi.
“Adi Shankaracharya undertook a cross-country visit and set up four maths. He also visited Jammu and Kashmir. A temple in Srinagar dedicated to Shankaracharya attracts hundreds of pilgrims,” Sinha said. “Now, the Shrine Board, district administration, and residents have collectively decided to construct a grand temple dedicated to him. A temple for the local deity will also be built.”
Infrastructure and Pilgrim Facilities
The LG highlighted plans to strengthen road infrastructure and construct 50 shops to support local livelihoods. Renovation of the Bhoomika temple and improved facilities for devotees are also in the pipeline.
The International Museum of Goddess Devi will feature a light and sound show inspired by those at Somnath Temple and the Statue of Unity, offering visitors a rich spiritual and cultural experience.
Helicopter Service to Shiv Khori
To ease pilgrim access to the Shiv Khori shrine, the Shiv Khori Shrine Board and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board have decided to operationalise helicopter services between Katra and Shiv Khori. Helipads at both locations are nearing completion, with flights expected to begin within three months.
Social Welfare and Disaster Relief
Sinha also announced a joint rehabilitation programme for ponywalas and laborers, following recommendations by an empowered committee under the National Green Tribunal. The Shrine Board will take full responsibility for their phased rehabilitation.
He praised the Shrine Board for its role during recent floods, including organising health camps, supplying essential materials, and reconstructing 15 schools damaged by heavy rainfall. Last year, the Board constructed five temples, with five more under construction and another five planned in Diggar for local residents.
“Along with the municipality and the Jammu and Kashmir administration, the Shrine Board will provide financial support for the town’s modernisation and infrastructure development,” Sinha added, emphasizing holistic development for Katra.
