Pakistan: Delayed temple reconstruction prevents Hindu mass festival gatherings in Rawalpindi

Punjab Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora visited the site on Saturday and directed authorities to expedite the completion of the project.

According to Pakistan’s Dawn, citing temple management, the reconstruction project is estimated to cost around Rs 40 million.

The temple was officially handed over to the Evacuee Trust Property Board on June 12, 2025, with restoration work beginning in July of the same year.

While the puja room and verandah remain intact, significant portions of the temple structure are still under construction.

Members of the Hindu community told Dawn that ongoing construction has discouraged regular visits, particularly on Tuesdays, which are traditionally considered an important prayer day.

Speaking on the project, Arora told Dawn: “The Constitution of Pakistan protects the rights of minorities. Followers of all religions in the country enjoy religious freedom.”