The Save Sharda Committee Kashmir (Regd.) has expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for announcing the construction of a Yatri Niwas at the historic Sharda Temple in Teetwal, Kashmir. The announcement was made during an assembly session in response to a question by MLA Javed Mirchal (Karnah). Additionally, the Chief Minister revealed plans for a cafeteria and emphasized the promotion of border tourism through home stays in the Karnah region.
In an official statement, Ravinder Pandita, Head and Founder of the Save Sharda Committee, welcomed the decision but also raised concerns about the management of the Yatri Niwas. “Once completed, the Yatri Niwas should be handed over to our committee for its operation and maintenance,” Pandita said.
The committee has played a key role in constructing and managing the Sharda Temple and a Sikh Gurudwara at the site, with Ajaz Ahmad serving as the local coordinator. Pandita further urged the Tourism Department to allocate funds for the renovation and upgrade of home stays to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
Last year, over 10,000 pilgrims and tourists visited the Sharda Temple at Teetwal, highlighting the urgent need for improved accommodation facilities. Currently, 31 home stays have been identified from Bag Bella to Teetwal to cater to the increasing influx of devotees and tourists.