The Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved Rs5.78 crore for the comprehensive restoration and preservation of the historic Lah Wali Bowli in Rajouri, in a significant move aimed at protecting the region’s architectural and cultural heritage.
The project will focus on the restoration of the historic stepwell and its associated architectural features, while retaining its original cultural character and historical significance.
Officials said the initiative is also intended to enhance the tourism value of the site and develop it as a heritage attraction for visitors, thereby contributing to the local economy and promoting Rajouri’s rich historical legacy.
The approval is part of the Government’s broader heritage conservation programme being undertaken under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, aimed at restoring and revitalising historically and culturally important sites across Jammu and Kashmir.
In recent months, the Government has approved several projects for the preservation of heritage sites in both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions.
These include the repair and renovation of Rattan Garh Fort in Bhaderwah, Doda, restoration and renovation of Ziyarat Sharief Khiram, repair and renovation of the historic Shiv Mandir at Thajiwara in Bijbehara, and the restoration and revival of the historic heritage site of Purmandal in Samba.Other initiatives approved by the Government include the conservation and upgradation of Imambara Zadibal in Srinagar, development of the revered holy spring of Khoo Sahib at Yarwan in Pulwama, restoration of the historic Jamia Masjid Sharief in Shopian, and restoration of the revered Sarvadhar Chaumanda Mata Mandir in Ramban.
The Government’s heritage conservation programme seeks to protect Jammu and Kashmir’s architectural legacy and cultural diversity, while integrating historically significant sites into the region’s wider tourism and cultural development strategy.
The restoration of Lah Wali Bowli is expected to give the historic site a renewed identity and improve its appeal as a heritage destination. The project is also likely to support local tourism and strengthen efforts to preserve the region’s diverse cultural heritage for future generations.(KNC)
