Vikramaditya Singh anguished, seeks accountability for Heritage damage, immediate restoration

Jammu, Jun 5: Former MLC and Trustee of J&K Dharmarth Trust, Vikramaditya Singh, has expressed serious concern over the damage caused to the historic heritage wall and adjoining structures of the revered Shri Gadhadhar Ji Temple at the Mubarak Mandi heritage complex due to excavation work being carried out for the multi-level parking project.

In a press statement issued here on Friday, the Trustee said that the reported collapse of a portion of the nearly 200-year-old heritage wall and the appearance of cracks in the temple complex have caused deep anguish among devotees and all those committed to preserving Jammu’s rich cultural and religious heritage. He emphasized that the Great Maharajas of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir had constructed hundreds of temples, shrines, and heritage structures that stand today as symbols of the region’s glorious history, spiritual traditions, and architectural excellence.

He said it is the responsibility of the administration and executing agencies to ensure that developmental activities do not endanger such invaluable heritage assets. “Development and heritage conservation must go hand in hand. Any negligence that results in damage to historical and religious structures is unacceptable,” he asserted.

Vikramaditya Singh urged the authorities to immediately halt excavation activities in the affected area until a comprehensive structural safety assessment is conducted by experts. He also called for the constitution of a joint committee comprising representatives from the Revenue Department, Archaeology, heritage experts, Jammu Smart City Limited, and the J&K Dharmarth Trust to assess the extent of the damage and recommend remedial measures.

Demanding accountability for the lapse, he sought immediate restoration and conservation of the damaged heritage structures at the cost of the executing agency. He stressed that preserving the priceless heritage left behind by the Maharajas is a collective responsibility and essential for safeguarding Jammu’s cultural legacy for future generations.