Badrinath to be developed as ‘Spiritual Hill Town’

Dehradun: Uttarakhand govt is carrying out multi-dimensional and phased works to develop Badrinath as a “Spiritual Smart Hill Town” aimed at providing pilgrims with a divine and organised experience along with modern amenities, tourism secretary Dhiraaj Singh Garbyal said during a review meeting chaired by CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday.Garbyal said Dev Darshani Point is being developed to offer devotees a grand first glimpse of Badrinath Temple, while Badrinarayan Chowk is being planned as a major spiritual and cultural centre with improved facilities and public spaces.Under the Badrinath Master Plan, symbols associated with Lord Vishnu, including Panchjanya Shankh, Kaumodaki Gada, Sudarshan Chakra and Vaikuntha Dwar, will be developed as large artworks to reflect the shrine’s spiritual significance and attract devotees.Garbyal said, “Along with the ongoing reconstruction works at Badrinath Dham, a work plan is also being prepared to develop Badrinath as a Spiritual Hill Town.” He added that the master plan focuses on beautification, cultural identity and spiritual significance.Officials said murals based on local art and religious themes will be created on the ISBT wall, while the Vasudha Vatika artwork project will combine nature, spirituality and Uttarakhand’s traditional art forms. Structures based on the Sheshnetra artwork and Panch Tatva theme are also planned to depict Indian philosophy and spiritual energy.Garbyal said symbols from the Ramayana and Mahabharata associated with Lord Ram and Krishna have also been incorporated into the design. Plans are also being prepared for a Diya Aarti site to enhance the spiritual experience for devotees.CM Dhami said streetscape development, including pedestrian pathways, lighting, seating, signage and beautification, will be carried out in a modern and eco-friendly manner. “These works will strengthen Badrinath’s spiritual atmosphere and give tourism a new direction,” he said.