President Murmu visits Atal Tunnel, Hidimba Temple on second day of Himachal visit
President Droupadi Murmu visited the Atal Tunnel and Hidimba Temple during her Himachal Pradesh tour, highlighting engineering marvels and spiritual heritage.
On the second day of her three-day tour of Himachal Pradesh, President Droupadi Murmu visited the engineering marvel of the Atal Tunnel and sought blessings at the historic Hidimba Temple.
President Murmu visits Atal Tunnel, Hidimba Temple in Himachal
The President's visit underscored the dual significance of the region: its cutting-edge technological advancements and its deep-rooted spiritual traditions. Accompanied by Governor Kavinder Gupta and Lady Governor Bindu Gupta, the President explored the high-altitude highway single-tube tunnel, situated at an elevation exceeding 10,000 feet above sea level.
A Marvel of Engineering Excellence
The Atal Tunnel serves as a vital lifeline, bridging the gap between the remote Lahaul-Spiti region and the rest of India. During her inspection, President Murmu showed a keen interest in the technical specifications and the complex engineering required to construct such a feat in the challenging Himalayan terrain.
Governor Kavinder Gupta lauded the tunnel, describing it as a world-class example of engineering prowess. He noted that the project is a testament to India's vision and technological capability, specifically designed to connect people living in difficult geographical areas. According to the Governor, the tunnel represents the strength of modern infrastructure and strategic development, offering new opportunities for those in isolated regions.
The President was received by a high-level delegation, including:
- BJP MP Kangana Ranaut
- Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani
- Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana
- Deputy Commissioner Kiran Badana
- Senior district administration officials and Army personnel
Minister Rajesh Dharmani presented a memento to the President to commemorate the occasion.
Spiritual Sojourn at Hidimba Temple
Following the technical tour, the President transitioned from modern engineering to ancient tradition. She and Governor Gupta visited the renowned Hidimba Temple at Dhungri in Manali. The President offered prayers at the historic site, seeking peace, prosperity, and the well-being of the nation's citizens.
This visit to the temple highlighted the profound spiritual and cultural heritage that defines Himachal Pradesh, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions that continue to thrive amidst the changing landscape of the mountains.
Commitment to Environmental Conservation
Beyond the infrastructure and temples, the visit also touched upon environmental stewardship. Governor Kavinder Gupta visited the Forest Rest House in Manali to participate in a plantation drive. In a symbolic gesture toward preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, the Governor planted a Ginkgo biloba sapling, a rare plant species.
Through this activity, the Governor emphasized the urgent need for sustainable development and the preservation of the region's natural heritage, urging a balance between modern progress and environmental protection.