EARLY TIMES SPECIAL
Jammu, Sept 27:Disputing the technical, commercial and environmental feasibility of the proposed multistory complex to be built after dismantling of a heritage structure at Jammu Dak Bungalow Complex, Jammu Heritage Conservation Club (JHCC) has urged the chief minister, Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, to visit the site before approving of the controversial plan.
Addressing a joint press conference in Jammu on Sunday, convener and deputy convener of JHCC, Afroze Khan and Sandeep Sharma said, "Today is World Tourism Day and we specifically chose this day for highlighting an issue related to Tourism department. We are not here against anybody in person, our sole aim is to save a heritage structure and prevent a multi crore scam from happening". Referring to importance of heritage buildings, JHCC activists said that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of neighbouring Himachal Pradesh sanctioned last week rupees 56 crore budget for "restoration" of Gorton Castle with the help of state tourism department. Of 130 room heritage complex, 70 rooms were damaged in a mysterious fire on January 28, 2014. "They didn't demolish it, like we do it in our state, but ordered its restoration to its original shape and style by sanctioning a huge sum of money", Afroze and Sandeep affirmed. |
