On the occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday laid the foundation stone for Yatri Bhawan at Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple, Tulmulla in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

The Lt Governor paid obeisance to Kheer Bhawani and prayed for peace, prosperity, happiness and well-being of one and all. He interacted with the devotees and extended his heartiest greetings on the auspicious occasion.

Addressing the media persons, Lt Governor reiterated the commitment of the UT Administration to augment the facilities for the devotees of Mata Kheer Bhawani.

He said the Yatri Bhawan, to be constructed at a cost of Rs 3.85 crore, will enhance the pilgrimage experience by offering comforting lodging and sanitation facilities. We are expecting to complete the Bhawan in next 8 months and it will accommodate 1000 pilgrims, he added.

The Lt Governor also appreciated the efforts of the District Administration, Relief Commissioner's Office, Police & Security Forces and all stakeholders for the smooth conduct of the Mela.

He said, over 30,000 devotees paid obeisance at Mela Kheer Bhawani this year.

“Around 200 buses have arrived from Jammu and the administration and citizens have ensured best possible facilities to the devotees,” Sinha said.

During his visit to the shrine at Tulmulla, Ganderbal, the Lt Governor also interacted with the members of Kashmiri Pandit Community and discussed various issues.

Nuzhat Ishfaq, DDC Chairperson Ganderbal; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Department; Shyambir, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal; senior officials of the Civil and Police Administration and pilgrims in large numbers were present on the occasion.