ETPB Begins De-Silting Work As Sacred Pond At Katasraj Dries

CHAKWAL: There had been unprecedented industrial growth especially several cement factories had come up in the area which had lowered the ground water level. In recent past, Pakistan government had undertaken massive restoration and development project of Katasraj cluster of temples situated in Chakwal district of Pakistan.

Ironically, this happened after Pak prime minster Nawaz Sharif himself had visited the Hindu temple site and inaugurated the water treatment plant installed at the holy pond.A Hindu devotee Ramesh Kumar who had gone to Katasraj to celebrate Mahashivratri in February told that water from holy pond was supplied to nearby villages of Choa Syeden Shah and Waula . "Experts were called in to inspect the pond for the restoration of water supply " said he adding that the de silting operation was begun immediately after performing puja (Hindu worship) by local Hindu priest of the shrine" said Faraz. 

Deputy Secretary informed that cranes and other machinery were put into service to clear the pond of silt.Katasraj is known for its cluster of temples especially Shiva temples and buildings of Hindu and Sikh heritage. 

AMRITSAR: For the first time heavy deposit of silt coupled with extreme weather conditions in Chakwal district of Pakistan completely dried the holy Amar Kund (sacred pond) at Katasraj cluster of temples forcing Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) to swing into action and begin de-silting of the pond to restore the water supply in one of the sacred religious place of Hindu's in Pakistan.

Deputy Secretary, Shrines, Faraz Abbas told over phone from Katasraj on Friday that a team of ETPB officials led by Chairman Farooq ul Saddiq and senior officials of Chakwal administration visited the holy pond and directed to begin the desilting work after a brief inspection.Various Hindu Jatha's from India visit Katasraj cluster of temples via Attari land border to celebrate Shivratri and other Hindu religious festivals.