Martand Heritage Body Applauds Archives Director for Action on Sacred Sites, Timely Fish Mortality Report

Jammu, January 28, 2026 – A delegation from the Shri Martand Tirath Virsa Pratishthan (SMTVP) today formally met with Shri Kuldeep Sidha, Director of Archives, Archaeology & Museums J&K, to express their profound gratitude for his department’s recent efforts in preserving sacred heritage sites, particularly the revered Martand Tirath in Mattan.

Led by senior Kashmiri Pandit leader and SMTVP Chairman, M. K. Yogi, the delegation lauded the Director for the recent facelift and renovation work at the sacred shrine. However, they offered special appreciation for his timely and factual “Ground Reality Report” concerning the alarming issue of fish mortality in the holy spring at Martand. The report, submitted in late December 2025, was credited with bringing immediate and high-level administrative attention to the sensitive ecological issue.

“Martand is not merely an archaeological monument but a living spiritual and cultural landscape,” stated Shri M. K. Yogi. “The holy spring and its aquatic life are integral to its sacred identity. The Director’s transparent and on-ground assessment has been crucial in highlighting the environmental concerns at the site.”

The delegation, which included founder members Surinder Mohan Tickoo and Gopi Krishan Khar, as well as Veer Ji Pandita, also thanked the Director for supporting long-pending projects. Shri Pandita specifically mentioned the sanction of funds for developing an approach road, stairs, and other facilities for devotees near the Mata Bhargshikha Bhawan, which will greatly enhance the pilgrimage experience.

Shri Gopi Krishan Khar added that the Director’s principled and transparent actions have “strengthened public faith in institutional accountability and heritage governance,” paving the way for better inter-departmental coordination and sustainable management of the heritage complex.

Looking ahead, the Pratishthan highlighted the need for modern scientific interventions to protect the Tirath’s delicate ecosystem. Shri Surinder Mohan Tickoo proposed several technical measures for consideration, including the use of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for monitoring, solar-powered aeration systems to improve water oxygen levels, and a scientific study of the spring’s natural water channels and thermal stratification.

Director Kuldeep Sidha gave the deputation a patient hearing and assured them that all necessary steps would be taken to preserve both the religious sanctity and the ecological balance of the revered Tirath Raj Martand.