Dehradun: Uttarakhand is set to witness a historic development with the construction of the state’s first large Yamuna Ghat in Haripur Kalsi, Dehradun district.
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced the project as part of his vision to re-establish Haripur Kalsi as a major religious pilgrimage site. Funds have already been allocated in the upcoming budget, and work has begun under the supervision of the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA).
Although the Yamuna River originates from Yamunotri in Uttarakhand, the state surprisingly had no ghat where devotees could take a holy dip. CM Dhami took cognizance of this gap and included the construction of Yamuna Ghat in his announcements. The new ghat, stretching nearly one kilometer, will provide thousands of pilgrims the opportunity to bathe in the Yamuna, making it a center of faith and devotion.
Project is part of the government’s manifesto
Historically, Haripur Jamuna Ghat was once a prominent pilgrimage site. However, it was washed away in a catastrophic flood many years ago. Determined to restore its glory, CM Dhami laid the foundation stone of the new ghat with great ceremony. He emphasized that the project is part of the government’s manifesto and will soon be completed, benefiting lakhs of devotees, especially those from the Jaunsar Bawar region and followers of Krishna-Yamuna traditions.
This place holds immense religious and cultural significance
Haripur Kalsi holds immense religious and cultural significance. It is linked to the Krishna period and features inscriptions erected by Emperor Ashoka. The site is also associated with the childhood martial training of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. Additionally, the ancient Ashvamedha Yagya site located on the Yamuna banks is under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), further highlighting the area’s historical importance.
Sculptors from Gujarat have been called to work on Yamuna statue
Adding grandeur to the project, preparations are underway to install a 25-foot-high statue of Yamuna ji on the pillar of the old bridge near the ghat. Sculptors from Gujarat have been called to work on the statue, and the Lok Panchayat Jamuna Tirtha Samiti has sought permission from the district administration. The committee has also received donated land for constructing a large temple near the ghat, with further plans being proposed.
CM Dhami reiterated the government’s commitment to developing Haripur Jamuna Ghat as a “Dham.” He said the project would not only revive a lost pilgrimage site but also strengthen Uttarakhand’s cultural identity. Once completed, the ghat will serve as a spiritual hub, attracting devotees and tourists alike, while restoring Haripur Kalsi’s historic prominence.