Restoration of Hazratbal Shrine begins in Kashmir

The restoration work of the historical Hazratbal Shrine is going on in full swing.

The administrator of the Hazratbal Shrine, Masood Ahmad, said:"The vice-chairman is planning to increase the capacity of front portion of the shrine during renovation work so that over 10,000 people are able to comfortably offer prayers. The other beautification work of the shrine is going on in full swing and if god's willing, the work will finish soon."

The renovation work of the shrine is under the supervision of the Muslim Waqf Board and is fully funded by the state government.

Every year lakhs of devotees and tourists visit the shrine due to historical and religious importance of the place.

A devotee, Nazir Ahmad, said he was happy that the government had decided to restore the shrine.

"Construction work is going on here. The restoration work started by the government to beautify the shrine is going on. There is an extension program of the shrine which is also funded by the government. The artisans have come from Rajasthan to do the marble work; the marble has also been brought from Rajasthan. The government has given the restoration a lot of importance," said Ahmad.

Special marble experts have been called from Rajasthan.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is also the chairman of Muslim Waqf Board, is keen on completing the restoration work in time for the benefit of the devotees and attracting tourists.