Anandpur Sahib, Jan 6: The Punjab government’s proposed Heritage Street project in Anandpur Sahib has run into a deadlock following objections from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), leaving construction suspended and pilgrims negotiating a partially dug-up stretch on the main approach road to Takht Shri Keshgarh Sahib.
The project, planned as a white-marble pedestrian corridor from NH-503 to the Takht, was halted after SGPC officials raised concerns and allegedly asked contractors of the state Tourism Department to stop work. Since then, there has been no official timeline for resumption.
“There is no clarity at this stage. Internally, there is a view that work may resume only after Hola Mohalla,” a Tourism Department official said on condition of anonymity.
The Heritage Street was conceived as a major religious tourism initiative, intended to improve access and enhance the spiritual setting of Anandpur Sahib, on the lines of the Heritage Street developed in Amritsar.
“That project significantly improved the pilgrim experience in Amritsar. Anandpur Sahib stood to gain in a similar manner,” the official said, adding that the initiative had become entangled in a wider political dispute.
The SGPC has defended its opposition, stating that the project could inconvenience devotees. In a letter dated December 22, the manager of Takht Shri Keshgarh Sahib urged the state government not to proceed with construction, citing concerns over crowd movement and objecting to certain design elements, including a proposed gate.
Acting Akal Takht Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj later expressed reservations, saying the gate could obstruct the direct view of the Takht.
Government sources, however, claimed that the project had earlier received SGPC approval and alleged that the objections were politically motivated. The dispute comes amid strained ties between the SGPC and the Aam Aadmi Party government following disagreements during events marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur last November.
Officials also warned that continued delays could have financial implications. The state government has sanctioned Rs 25 crore for the project, but the funds could lapse if construction does not resume within the stipulated timeframe.
When contacted, Education and Public Relations Minister Harjot Singh Bains declined to comment on the standoff. “I have ensured funds for Anandpur Sahib. Beyond that, I have nothing to add,” he said.
As matters stand, a project envisioned to blend faith, heritage and tourism remains stalled, while uncertainty continues to surround its future.
