Gandhinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Gujarat on May 26 and 27. During this visit, the Prime Minister will travel to Kutch on the first day, i.e., May 26, where he will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate 33 development projects worth ₹53,414 crore at a ceremony organized in Bhuj. These projects also include the e-inauguration of works under the ‘Matano Madh Master Plan’ at Ashapura Dham, a center of faith for lakhs of devotees in Gujarat.

The state government and the Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Development Board had implemented a ₹32.71 crore master plan for the renovation and redevelopment of the Ashapura Dham complex in Lakhpat taluka of Kutch district, which has now been completed.

Under the master plan, large-scale amenities have been created for devotees at the Shri Ashapura Mataji Temple complex. The Khatla Bhavani Temple and Chachra Kund have been renovated, while beautification works have been carried out at Ruparay Lake. An entrance plaza has been built, and parking facilities have been developed. Additionally, arrangements for drinking water, toilets, seating, and plantation have also been completed at the pilgrimage site.

Development of Khatla Bhavani Temple

Devotees visit the Ashapura Mata Temple at Matano Madh throughout the year, but the number increases significantly during Navratri. As part of the master plan, the Khatla Bhavani Temple and Chachra Kund were given a new look in anticipation of the large influx of devotees during the festival.

The Khatla Bhavani Temple is located atop a hill, accessible via roofed steps and a motorable road. A large undeveloped area near the temple offers panoramic views of Matano Madh village. As part of the redevelopment, the steps leading to the temple were renovated, the temple was clad in stone, and the surrounding area was developed for pilgrims. Facilities such as a walkway, children’s play area, gazebo repairs, a vehicle access ramp, plantations, parking, a toilet block, shed-outlets for temporary stalls, and a main entrance have all been created.

Renovation of the Dilapidated Chachra Kund

Matano Madh village houses the ancient Chachra Kund, which retains water year-round. The surrounding area, though spacious, was in a dilapidated condition and lacked supporting infrastructure. Under the master plan, Chachra Kund has been renovated with modern lighting. The area now features a walkway, children’s playground, and seating arrangements. A kitchen-dining facility has also been set up to allow visitors to prepare and enjoy their meals. Additionally, an amphitheater-style seating area, plantation work, toilet block, and repairs to the temple’s main entrance have been completed.

In the final phase of the master plan, development works at Ruparay Lake and the Ashapura Mata Temple at Matano Madh have also been completed.