Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha laid the foundation stone for the conservation of Shalimar Garden

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the conservation and restoration of the historic Shalimar Garden here, an official spokesperson said. He said that the Jammu and Kashmir government had last year signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with JSW Foundation for restoration and conservation of Shalimar and Nishat Gardens.

In his address, the Lt Governor appreciated the efforts of JSW Foundation, Conservation Architects, Department of Floriculture, local artists and other experts involved in conservation and restoration work in Shalimar Gardens. He said that the Union Territory Government in association with JSW Foundation is making constant efforts to restore the glorious heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, which will further boost tourism in the region.

He said, “Gardens are a living reflection of cultural heritage. We have embarked on a journey to conserve cultural assets, valuable sites representing artistic and intellectual brilliance.”

“Apart from bringing new investments and industries to the Union Territory, we have also ensured protection of cultural assets inherited from our ancestors,” he said.

He said that the park continues to be one of the main tourist attractions in the valley.

The Floriculture Department is making dedicated efforts to preserve the historical-cultural heritage of the eight Mughal Gardens, he said, adding that the dossier of the Mughal Gardens has already been sent for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site last year and This has increased the influx of tourists. And the local people in these gardens.

Conservation Architect Abha Narayan Lamba briefed the Lieutenant Governor about the phase-wise action plan for execution of the restoration work of Shalimar Garden.

It was informed that stone fountain, painted ceiling, artwork and unique hydrological system will also be installed under the project.