The Punjab Government has constituted a committee that includes representatives from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to build a consensus on the ambitious Anandpur Sahib Heritage Street project. The earlier plan was shelved earlier this year following strong objections from the SGPC.
Background of the Project
Initially proposed by the Punjab Tourism Department, the heritage street was intended to stretch from the main Ropar-Anandpur Sahib highway to Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib. The Rs 25-crore project included an ornamental gateway on the highway, an all-white marble pathway leading to the Takht, and the redesigning of shops along the route to reflect Anandpur Sahib's historical and architectural heritage.
SGPC Objections and Changes
The SGPC raised several objections to the original design. They argued that the proposed gateway would obstruct the direct view of Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib from the main road. Additionally, they opposed the white marble pathway, insisting that the route remain motorable. These objections forced the government to shelve the original plan.
Revised Proposal
The government is now exploring an alternative alignment within the holy city. The revised proposal envisages the heritage street beginning from the road leading from Qila Anandgarh Sahib to Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, then extending towards Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib and Gurdwara Bhora Sahib. Unlike the earlier concept, the new street will pass through Anandpur Sahib's internal roads rather than being prominently visible from the main highway.
Official Statements
Punjab Education Minister and Anandpur Sahib legislator Harjot Singh Bains confirmed the development, stating, "A committee has been formed, which also includes SGPC representatives, to evolve a consensus and finalise the design of the heritage street in Anandpur Sahib."
Broader Context
The heritage street was conceived as a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at blending faith, heritage, and tourism. Inspired by the success of the heritage street project in Amritsar, it was expected to transform the pilgrim experience in Anandpur Sahib and boost tourism. However, the controversy unfolded against the backdrop of strained relations between the SGPC and the state government during the commemoration of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur last year. During the celebrations, the SGPC had declined permission for the government to use its inns in Anandpur Sahib, objecting to parallel programmes organised by the state.
Officials, including Akal Takht Jathedar Kuldip Singh Gargaj, had also expressed reservations about the earlier design. With the new committee in place, the government hopes to address all concerns and move forward with the project.
