Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, June 6: Expressing serious concern over the recent collapse of a portion of the historic Shri Gadadhar Ji Temple wall near the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex, Dr Ritu Singh today urged the administration to immediately begin restoration and reconstruction work to preserve the shrine’s heritage and spiritual significance.
Accompanied by officials of the J&K Dharmarth Trust, including its secretary Ashok Sharma, Dr Ritu visited the temple to assess the damage caused by the incident. She described the collapse as a matter of grave concern for devotees, heritage enthusiasts and the people of Jammu.
Highlighting the historical importance of the shrine, Dr Ritu said the temple, constructed during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh, remains an integral part of Jammu’s rich cultural and religious legacy and has been a centre of faith for generations.
She noted that a major tragedy was narrowly averted as hundreds of devotees had gathered at the temple shortly before the wall collapsed. “It is by the blessings of Shri Gadadhar Ji that no loss of life occurred despite the large gathering present at the shrine,” she said.
During the visit, Dr Ritu observed that the impact of the collapse extended beyond the temple premises, affecting nearby residential areas as well. She expressed concern over reported damage to public utilities, including water supply lines, and stressed that the safety and well-being of residents living around the temple should be accorded top priority.
Calling for urgent intervention, she urged the concerned authorities to conduct a comprehensive structural assessment of the temple complex and adjoining areas through qualified experts to identify vulnerabilities and prevent any further damage.
Dr Ritu also appealed to the administration to undertake restoration and conservation work in accordance with established heritage preservation norms so that the original architectural character and spiritual sanctity of the historic temple are maintained.
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