President and Governor pay obeisance at Hadimba Temple

During the second day of three-day visit to Himachal Pradesh, President Droupadi Murmu today visited the 9.02-kilometre-long Atal Tunnel, a highway single-tube tunnel located at an altitude of over 10,000 feet above sea level. Governor Kavinder Gupta and Lady Governor Bindu Gupta accompanied the President during the visit.

During the visit, President Droupadi Murmu took keen interest in the engineering features and construction of the Atal Tunnel and was briefed on its technical aspects. She also enjoyed the scenic beauty of the surrounding Himalayan region.

Speaking on the occasion, Governor said that the Atal Tunnel is a world-class example of engineering excellence that has brought Lahaul-Spiti significantly closer to the rest of the country. He said the tunnel was a testament to India’s vision, technological capability and unwavering commitment to connecting people living in remote and difficult geographical regions.

The Governor said that the Atal Tunnel represented the strength of modern infrastructure and strategic development and served as an inspiring example of the country’s capacity to undertake major infrastructure projects in challenging terrain. He said that such projects not only improve connectivity but also contribute to greater opportunities and development for people living in remote areas.

At the North Portal of the tunnel, the President was accorded a traditional welcome by local residents. Technical Education Minister and Minister-in-Waiting during the President’s visit, Rajesh Dharmani, MP  Kangana Ranaut, MLA Anuradha Rana, Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana, officers of the district administration and Army officials also welcomed the President.

Rajesh Dharmani presented a memento to the President on the occasion.

Later, President and Governor visited the renowned Hidimba Temple at Dhungri, Manali, where they offered prayers and paid obeisance. They prayed for the peace, prosperity, happiness and well-being of the people of the country.

Governor also visited the Forest Rest House at Manali, where he participated in a plantation activity. He planted a sapling of Ginkgo biloba, a rare plant, and conveyed the message of environmental conservation and the importance of protecting the Himalayan ecosystem.

The Governor emphasised, through the plantation activity, the need to preserve the region’s rich natural heritage and promote sustainable development in the fragile mountain environment.