Jammu, Feb 27 (UNI) The renovation of the heritage Mubarak Mandi palace complex in the Old City here will cost Rs 43.74 crore, according to the ITDC's project report submitted to the Union government.

At a high level meeting presided by Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad last evening, it was informed that a project report of Rs 43.74 crore had been prepared for restoration of old glory of the complex by ITDC (India Tourism Development Corporation) and submitted to Government of India for funding under Destination Development Scheme.

It was informed that Rs 4.37 crore have already been sanctioned under the project and Rs 3 crore have been released for taking up the renovation work of heritage complex.

Under first phase construction and renovation of heritage hotel, art and entertainment hall, state crafts centre, museum, convention hall, tourist complex, underground car parking, king hall, royal chamber, Rani Mahal and Gole Ghar would be completed.

The meeting also discussed other modalities for the development of this heritage place.

Mr Azad said Mubarak Mandi Complex would be developed as a tourist destination and socio-cultural cum heritage centre.

''By restoring old grandeur of these places we are preserving our history,'' he added.

UNI