new-water-pipeline-to-refill-historic-kali-devi-temple-sarovar

A new one-kilometre-long water pipeline project was inaugurated at Patiala’s famous Kali Devi Temple on Wednesday by Punjab’s cabinet ministers, Hardeep Singh Mundian and Dr. Balbir Singh.

The project, valued at ₹70 lakh, will refill the sacred tank (sarovar) at the temple after nearly three decades. 

The decision to install a new pipeline was announced less than a month ago by Punjab’s Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal who had gone to pay obeisance at the temple.

At the inauguration, Mundian and Singh were accompanied by Patiala MLA, Ajitpal Singh Kohli. They announced that fresh water would reach the tank within two months. 

“The project not only symbolizes infrastructural development, but also reflects the government’s commitment to preserving faith and heritage”, said Mundian, adding that the pipeline was a “new lifeline for the devotees’ faith”.

Mundian promised to complete the temple’s restoration – a long-standing demand of the devotees – with “full devotion” and within the stipulated time. 
The earlier pipeline to the temple from Baradari area had been damaged due to tree root intrusion, disrupting the water supply to the temple and Rajindra Lake. 

Before the launch, the leaders, who were also accompanied by Mayor Kundan Gogia and Senior Deputy Mayor Harinder Kohli, paid obeisance at the temple and prayed for “the peace, progress, and prosperity of the state”.

The ministers emphasized that the renovation would also include the development of a heritage street, revival of the Rajindra Lake, and enhancement of the adjoining Baradari area. A comprehensive master plan is being prepared in consultation with urban and religious planning experts to include provisions for sanitation, parking, traffic management, and preservation of architectural symmetry, they informed.

A fully air-conditioned hall will be constructed to serve senior citizens, women with children, and differently-abled devotees. Langar and other facilities will also be upgraded to better serve visitors throughout the year.