In his speech, Mehra highlighted the importance of tourism to boost the economy, and the need to appreciate one ‘s history, culture and heritage. He further dwelt on the UT Administration’s decision to embark upon preserving the city’s modern heritage, which dates back to 50 years, in a way that encourages people to know about their grand and prestigious past. The Administration also plans to bring it in the list of UNESCO’s list of Heritage City. He established the need to restore the glory of the 350-year-old Mani Majra Fort.

On the occasion, Convener of INTACH for the Chandigarh Chapter, Mr V K Kapoor emphasised the importance of the city’s youngsters knowing and appreciating their cultural heritage and taking initiatives for preserving and restoring beauty to the monuments.

Director of Tourism and an active member of INTACH, Chandigarh Chapter, Vivek Atray, on the occasion said that a group of about 120 members comprising of senior government officials, judges, intellectuals, architects and artists are striving towards highlighting and preserving the heritage in the city. It was at the initiative of INTACH that the Bheema Devi Temple in Pinjore and Jayanti Devi in Punjab were identified as heritage sites, he revealed.

Apart from the walk, a sketching competition was also organised with participants from the College of Art and Architecture, Chandigarh. The Adviser gave away the prizes to the winners.