Amritsar, June 7: After years of neglect, Amritsar’s iconic Golden Gate is finally undergoing restoration. The Municipal Corporation has hired a private firm to refurbish the fading structure, originally constructed in 2016 as part of a city beautification drive under the SAD-BJP government.
Erected at a cost of Rs 9.50 crore, the monumental gateway along the Amritsar-Jalandhar GT Road was envisioned as a majestic entry point for visitors and pilgrims arriving in the holy city. Admired for its golden dome and architectural detailing, the structure has since suffered due to a lack of regular upkeep. Over the years, dust and pollution dimmed its brilliance, rust corroded portions of its iron frame, and peepal plants growing in the crevices further degraded the landmark.
Speaking on the ongoing restoration, Sandeep Singh, Executive Engineer (Civil), Municipal Corporation, said, “The primary concern is the rusted iron plates. We’ve deployed a team of experts to begin the process by removing rust, after which the structure will be repainted in golden to revive its original appearance.”
The restoration work began earlier this week, with a focus on structural and aesthetic rehabilitation.
However, the restoration is not only about surface repairs. Local residents and visitors have also expressed concerns over barricades placed by the police beneath the gate, which obstruct smooth traffic flow and contribute to the gate’s neglected impression.
PC Sharma, a city-based activist, welcomed the initiative but added a note of caution. “Whether the restoration lives up to expectations remains to be seen. But at least efforts are underway. This gate is more than a structure—it’s a symbolic welcome to Amritsar, which draws lakhs of pilgrims and tourists annually.”
Many citizens have called for better coordination between civic authorities and enforcement agencies to ensure both the upkeep and functionality of this landmark.
