Punjab, CPCB to conduct joint study to save Golden Temple

Chandigarh, Jan 16 (UNI) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Punjab Pollution Board would conduct a joint scientific study to save the most sacred religious place of Sikhs, Golden Temple, from the ill effects of increasing pollution level in its vicinity.

Stating this here today Punjab Environment Minister Bikram Singh Majithia said assistance of CPCB had been sought because it had a vast experience of suggesting measures for protection of Taj Mahal.

''Sri Darbar Sahib Complex is an example of architectural skills, but due to urbanisation, industrialisation and other domestic activities pollution level is increasing in the holy city day by day, hence threatening this precious heritage site,'' the Minister said.

''According to the initial studies the probable reasons identified for the increasing pollution are transportation, industrial and commercial activities, huge buildings and their emission around the complex. Similarly within the complex also the use of fuel in community Kitchen and other domestic activities are increasing the pollution level,'' the minister added.

Mr Majithia said since no scientific and systematic study had been conducted with regard to identifying and quantifying the factors affecting the Sri Harmander Sahib, it had been decided to rope in CPCB in this exercise.

''Sri Harmander Sahib is the most sacred religious site for crores of Punjabi people living around the World. This is the only symbol of religious, environment and natural harmony available worldwide.

The sarovars, Guru Ka Bagh, Parikarna marble work particularly the sun-watch and marble tomb built by the late Sardar Lahna Singh Majithia are the heritage that guided the generations over the last 400 years.'' ''Like Harmander Sahib, the Punjab Government is committed to protect and preserve all the heritage sights which are the symbol of glorious past and the source of inspiration for the future generations,'' Mr Majithia said.

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