SRINAGAR, October 18, 2026 – Marking a significant step towards preserving Kashmir’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the revival and restoration of the historic Vittal Bhairav Temple at Motiyar, Rainawari, in Srinagar district.
The ambitious restoration project is being undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 2.84 crore under the Government’s heritage conservation initiative. The primary aim of the project is to meticulously preserve the temple’s profound historical, religious, and cultural significance.
During his visit to the site, Chief Secretary Dulloo reviewed various components of the proposed restoration blueprint. He directed the concerned officers and executing agencies to expedite the work, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to prescribed timelines and uncompromising quality standards.
Speaking on the importance of the project, Dulloo stated that the conservation efforts are aimed at reviving the decades-old glory of the temple. He noted that the initiative firmly reflects the administration’s commitment to conserving the region’s shared heritage while recognizing and honoring the cultural contributions of the different communities that make up Kashmir’s diverse social fabric.
The foundation-laying ceremony was attended by prominent administrative officials and local stakeholders, including Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Dr. Basharat Qayoom, the Director of Archives, and representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community.
Other key officials present on the occasion included Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Chief Planning Officer Fayaz Ahmad Dar, SMC Joint Commissioners Syed Abu Qasim and Nuzhat Qureshi, and Superintending Engineer R&B Tatheer Manzoor, along with officers from the Police, Revenue, KPDCL, and PHE departments.
Published by True Roots Media Network