Jora inspects renovation work on Abhinav Theatre

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Dec 26: Minister for Tourism and Culture, Nawang Rigzin Jora, on Wednesday inspected pace of renovation work on the prestigious Abhinav Theatre taken up at an estimated cost of Rs 5.27 crore.
Abhinav Theatre Jammu is a seat for promotion of cultural activities. The renovation includes repair of the main building, existing auditorium, entrance of central office building, sub-office building besides installation of air conditioning system and electrification works.
Started in March last with the release of Rs. 2.40 crore, the renovation work on the Theatre is in full swing and is expected to be completed by the end of February next.
During his visit, the Tourism Minister inspected the pace and quality of work under progress at various sections, while seeking information about the status and schedule of the work.
The Chief Engineer R&B, Jammu, Taseen Mustafa, Additional Secretary, J&K Art, Culture and Languages, besides other senior officers and engineers accompanied the Minister.
The Minister directed the executing agency to expedite the pace of work and ensure use of quality material, besides installation of State of art equipments at one of the best theatres of the State.
He directed to take up the mechanical and electric works simultaneously to ensure completion of the work by the end of February next.
Meanwhile, Mr Jora said that conservation and restoration of historical cultural heritage of the State was getting focused attention of the Government.
He said Government was contemplating to declare all historical places as State protected monuments for their restoration, adding that in this regard a number of historical forts, buildings and holy shrines have been already restored to their pristine glory.
The Minister was interacting with MLC, Jehangir Mir, who called on him to hail his efforts for restoration work of Maharaja Poonch Palace at Talab Tiloo, Jammu.
Mr. Jora said that he visited this historical site and took stock of renovation / restoration work of the Palace. He said the concerned authorities have been directed to formulate a conservation plan in this regard so that necessary funds would be arranged for taking up the restoration work of the Palace at the earliest.