Sindh Tourism Minister Zulfiqar Ali Shah has proposed the establishment of a religious corridor akin to the Kartarpur Corridor to facilitate Hindu and Jain devotees visiting Pakistan. Speaking at a tourism promotion event in Dubai, Shah elaborated on the potential of creating this corridor on the Pakistan-India border, specifically in the Sindh province.
Potential Sites for the Corridor
Shah identified Umarkot and Nagarparkar as the primary locations for the proposed corridor. Nagarparkar, in particular, is renowned for its numerous historical Jain temples, which hold significant religious and cultural value for Jain devotees. The area is also rich in historical heritage, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
Interest from Devotees
Shah highlighted the considerable interest from Hindus and Jains who wish to visit these sacred sites in Sindh. The establishment of a religious corridor would not only cater to their spiritual needs but also promote cultural exchange and foster better relations between the communities of both countries.
Enhancing Accessibility
To further facilitate religious tourism, Shah suggested the initiation of a weekly flight from India to key cities in Sindh, such as Sukkur or Larkana. These flights would provide easier and more direct access for Indian devotees, encouraging more frequent visits and boosting tourism in the region.
Government Support and Collaboration
Shah emphasized the Sindh government’s commitment to promoting religious tourism and its readiness to collaborate with Indian authorities to make this corridor a reality. He mentioned that this initiative could follow the successful model of the Kartarpur Corridor, which has allowed thousands of Sikh pilgrims to visit the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan with relative ease.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The proposed corridor aims to highlight the rich cultural and religious history of Sindh. Umarkot is historically significant as the birthplace of the Mughal Emperor Akbar, while Nagarparkar’s temples are architectural marvels that date back several centuries. This initiative would not only serve religious purposes but also help preserve and promote the region’s heritage.
Economic and Social Impact
Establishing a religious corridor and enhancing travel accessibility would have positive economic implications for Sindh. Increased tourism would lead to greater revenue, job creation, and infrastructure development. Additionally, fostering religious tourism could enhance people-to-people contact, promoting peace and understanding between India and Pakistan.
In conclusion, Sindh Tourism Minister Zulfiqar Ali Shah’s proposal for a Kartarpur-like religious corridor for Hindu and Jain devotees has the potential to significantly enhance religious tourism, cultural exchange, and economic development in the region. The initiative underscores the Sindh government’s commitment to promoting its rich cultural heritage and fostering better relations between the neighboring countries.
