Shimla: After Atal Tunnel at Rohtang, Himachal's Lahaul-Spiti district will get another gift. According to MP Ram Lal Markanda, a Buddhist study centre will be built in Spiti's Tabo Panchayat under the Himalayan Buddhist Study Circuit. The Government of India has given its approval for the project. This centre will cost about 100 crores.
Markanda said that this will develop Buddhism and its culture in the area of Lahaul Spiti. Before this, there was also some talk of installing a statue of Lord Buddha near the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang. The foundation stone laying ceremony of the study centre may be held next year. A letter has also been written to the Tibetan religious leader Dalai Lama informing of the same.
Ramlal Markanda said that the tunnel is a wonderful blessing for Lahaul.
Lahaul, which was cut off from the country and the world due to six months of snowfall, will now be connected to everywhere through this tunnel, throughout the year. Since the inauguration of the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang on October 3, about 3000 to 4000 vehicles are passing through the tunnel daily. The tourism sector will also get a major boost in Lahaul due to this tunnel. Schemes like Mukhyamantri Swavalamban Yojana can prove to be beneficial for Lahaul. Due to the tunnel, more tourists will come to Lahaul which will result in the development of tourism infrastructure and local culture will be encouraged.
Ramlal Markanda said that there are 11 natural slopes in Lahaul which can prove to be an amazing place for winter sports. Himachal government will organize winter sports and snow festival in winter to promote winter sports in the snowy areas of Lahaul. For this, 50 youths will be given basic and advanced courses and they will also be provided with snow scooters and snow skis.
Markanda said that tourists should come to Himachal and enjoy natural views. He also cautioned the tourists against littering the place. In fact, after the inauguration of the Atal Tunnel, many tourists came to see it and various pictures of people littering places became viral on social media after which the Minister appealed to the tourists to enjoy the beauty of the area without destroying it.
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