Dinanagar, February 12 – Deputy Commissioner Uma Shankar Gupta visited the historic Baradari of Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Keshopur Chhamb Community Reserve in Dinanagar today. Accompanying him were SDM Dinanagar Jaspinder Singh Bhullar (IAS), representatives of the Gurdaspur District Heritage Society, and other officials.
Preserving the Legacy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh
During his visit to the historic Baradari, DC Uma Shankar Gupta learned about its rich past. He highlighted that Gurdaspur district holds immense historical significance and noted that Maharaja Ranjit Singh used to spend the summer months of May and June in Dinanagar, which led to it being regarded as his summer capital.
DC Gupta also pointed out that in 1838, a crucial tripartite treaty was signed at this very Baradari between Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the British government, and the exiled Afghan King Shah Shuja. Recognizing its historical importance, the Punjab Government has declared the Baradari a protected heritage site, and efforts will be made for its preservation and restoration.
Keshopur Chhamb – A Haven for Migratory Birds
Following his heritage site visit, DC Gupta toured Keshopur Chhamb, India’s first Community Reserve, which spans 850 acres across five villages—Keshopur, Dala, Miani, Matwa, and Magar Mudian near Gurdaspur. He emphasized that the wetland serves as a crucial stopover for thousands of migratory birds from Siberia, Russia, China, and Central Asia during winters. He reaffirmed the Punjab Government’s commitment to maintaining an eco-friendly habitat for these birds.
To promote eco-tourism, observation towers have been set up for wildlife photographers and birdwatchers, and ₹40 lakh has been allocated for further development of the Chhamb. The government also plans to digitize the Interpretation Center, providing detailed information on migratory birds and their habitats. Additionally, a four-kanal pond will be developed for boating activities, enhancing tourism opportunities.
DC Gupta urged locals, especially schoolchildren, to visit Keshopur Chhamb and experience its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. He personally observed the migratory birds and inspected exhibitions at the Interpretation Center.
