Tourism Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond reviews ongoing works, directs timely completion

Chandigarh, 13 July (H.S.): The Punjab Government is developing tourism and heritage infrastructure projects worth over ₹62 crore across the state to promote tourism, preserve Punjab’s rich cultural legacy and create new opportunities for economic growth.

Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond reviewed the progress of these ongoing projects during a meeting with senior officials of the department. He directed all executing agencies to complete the works within the stipulated time while ensuring high-quality standards.

Sond said the projects reflect the vision of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government to promote sustainable tourism and preserve Punjab’s unique cultural identity. He said the government is making consistent efforts to showcase Punjab’s historical, religious and cultural heritage before visitors from India and abroad.

The minister said these projects will improve visitor infrastructure, conserve important historical and cultural landmarks and generate employment opportunities for local communities. He added that tourism development will also help strengthen local economies.

During the review, Sond discussed the construction of a heritage welcome gate at the entrance of Punjab at an estimated cost of ₹11 crore. The project aims to create a grand and attractive gateway to the state.

He also reviewed the ₹8.30 crore Malout Craft Corridor project in Sri Muktsar Sahib district. The project is aimed at promoting Punjab’s traditional crafts, supporting local artisans and developing a cultural destination for tourists.

The minister further reviewed the ₹14.30 crore project for the construction of an auditorium, expansion of the Shaheed Udham Singh Memorial Museum and construction of a memorial gate at the entrance to Sunam city in Sangrur district.

Sond also assessed the ₹9 crore development and beautification project of Heritage Street at Gurdwara Tutti Gandi Sahib, Sri Muktsar Sahib, which will enhance facilities for devotees and visitors.

Another major project reviewed was the ₹20 crore Ecotourism Experience at Kanjli Wetlands in Kapurthala district. The project includes operation, maintenance and management of the facility for five years and aims to promote eco-friendly tourism.

The minister asked officials to monitor all works closely, remove obstacles promptly and ensure that people benefit from improved tourism facilities at the earliest.

The meeting was attended by Secretary Tourism and Cultural Affairs Kumar Amit, Director Sanjeev Tiwari and other officials.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH