Dr Darakhshan Andrabi announces restoration of shrine sanctum and pending heritage works after public concerns over project omissions
Inayat Qayoom
Baramulla, June 20:
In a significant move aimed at preserving a revered religious and heritage site, Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson and Minister of State Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi on Friday announced that the Board will undertake the reconstruction of the sanctum of the historic Shrine of Hazrat Syed Janbaaz Wali (RA) at Khanpora in Baramulla, along with all other components left out of the ongoing restoration project.
The announcement came during Dr Andrabi’s visit to the shrine, where she conducted an on-the-spot inspection of the Heritage Restoration and Conservation Project being executed by the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K.
The visit followed repeated representations from local residents and devotees who had voiced concerns over the exclusion of certain key components from the restoration plan and sought the intervention of the Waqf Board Chairperson.
After reviewing the project and interacting with stakeholders, Dr Andrabi directed that the reconstruction of the shrine sanctum and other pending developmental and conservation works be taken up immediately by the J&K Waqf Board.
She assured devotees that all works would be carried out with due regard to the shrine’s religious sanctity, historical significance and architectural heritage, while also addressing public aspirations.
“The Waqf Board remains committed to safeguarding religious and heritage assets across Jammu and Kashmir. The restoration work at this revered shrine will be undertaken in a manner that respects its spiritual importance and cultural legacy,” Dr Andrabi said.
The announcement was welcomed by local residents and devotees, who expressed gratitude for what they described as a timely intervention to address long-pending concerns. Many termed the decision a balanced approach that would help preserve the shrine’s heritage character while meeting the expectations of the local community.
Earlier, Dr Andrabi chaired a review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Baramulla to assess the status and progress of the restoration project. The meeting was attended by senior civil and engineering officials, including Additional Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Syed Altaf Hussain Musvi, representatives of the Waqf Board, and officials from the Roads and Buildings Department.
The Shrine of Hazrat Syed Janbaaz Wali (RA) is among the prominent religious landmarks in north Kashmir and attracts devotees from different parts of the Valley.