Dharamsala War Memorial set for major overhaul

In a major push for the development and preservation of the Dharamsala War Memorial, a high-level meeting chaired by Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bhairwa was held today at the War Museum auditorium. The meeting followed the recognition of the memorial’s significance during the recent Kargil Vijay Diwas function, where Minister Dhani Ram Shandil praised its legacy.

Described by many as “historic and action-oriented,” the meeting brought together key stakeholders to address long-standing issues surrounding the iconic site dedicated to India’s fallen soldiers. Among the officials present were Colonel KKS Dhadwal, president of the War Memorial Committee, Smart City Commissioner Zafar Iqbal, SDM Mohit Ratan and senior officers from other departments.

Several crucial matters were promptly resolved. These included settling the revenue record of the memorial premises, approving the removal of 12 dried trees posing safety hazards, initiating construction of a proposed lake, shifting the current parking area, increasing Home Guard deployment and finalising works worth Rs 15 lakh.

The DC declared that the Dharamsala SDM would make a final decision on the formal transfer of land ownership to the War Memorial Society on August 6. Commissioner Zafar Iqbal pledged further support from the Smart City Mission, promising additional benches and solar lights to improve visitor comfort.

A special working group was also formed to finalise the lake’s design, with members from the War Memorial Committee, Smart City Mission and the IPH. The BDO was directed to process compensation for damage caused by the June 2024 forest fire that affected parts of the memorial complex.