Despite numerous announcements over the years, a live telecast of Aarti at Shri Shiv Khori Shrine has yet to become a reality due to the failure of the board responsible for the shrine to secure a television channel for the broadcast. The lack of a master plan for the shrine’s development has also hindered progress. While there have been discussions and meetings about the issue, no positive results have emerged. A tender for the live telecast was issued but received a poor response, leading to the decision to reissue the tender.
The proposed development of Shiv Khori involves the preparation of a master plan for the holistic and planned development of the shrine area. The plan would include the development of facilities for pilgrims, the upgrading of existing facilities and the identification of works to be undertaken in the future. The plan would be developed with the help of a reputed agency or institution in the country. The Shrine Board is aware of the need for a master plan and plans to engage an agency or institution for its preparation, but no concrete steps have been taken yet. The Divisional Commissioner, during his last visit, had instructed the relevant officials to focus on the development of the Ghat, establish an effective mechanism for waste disposal, provide adequate medical care and incorporate religious activities. The departments involved were directed to conduct a safety evaluation of the track.
Despite being repeatedly emphasised, progress towards the proposed ropeway project has been slow, with no significant developments beyond the initial announcement. The considerable delay in the various projects is hindering the development of an alternative tourist destination. The administration must guarantee the timely completion of the announced development projects.