Center approves ₹93.94 crore project to redevelop Maharaja Ajj Sarovar in Punjab’s Kharar

The Union Ministry of Tourism has approved a ₹93.94 crore project to rejuvenate and redevelop the historic Maharaja Ajj Sarovar at Kharar in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab, paving the way for its transformation into a major heritage and tourist destination in Punjab.

The approval of the project follows several rounds of consultations between the Punjab government and the Centre. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, who visited the site earlier this year to inaugurate the Ram temple on the banks of the Sarovar, pushed the proposal with the Union Ministry of Tourism. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann also supported the initiative by directing officials to prepare and submit a detailed project report (DPR) for the ministry’s consideration.

Shashi Pal Jain, president of the Shri Ram Mandir Ajj Sarovar Vikas Committee, has played a significant role in the conservation of the site, who has been leading efforts for its conservation and development for nearly four decades. Mr. Jain said the Sarovar, spread over about 133 kanals along the Kharar-Chandigarh National Highway, is associated with Maharaja Ajj, who is considered the grandfather of Lord Rama in Hindu tradition. The site is considered an important religious, cultural and historical monument in the region.

The project was approved under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme.

He said local residents, community organizations and members of the public are making ongoing efforts to preserve and improve the site. He added that the long-term success of the project will depend on the restoration of water in the Sarovar as rapid urbanization in the surrounding areas has affected the natural watershed supplying the water body.

Published – 01 Oct 2026 10:49 IST