Dharamshala – In honor of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama's 80th birthday celebrated on June 21-23, honorable Chief Minster of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Virbhadra Singh, officially renamed the road from Mcleod Ganj to Dharamshala, Potala Road.
The road stretches all the way from Mcleod Ganj, the residence of His Holiness, to the TCV School in lower Dharamshala via Gangchen Kyishong, the seat of the Central Tibetan administration. The span of the road encompasses the entire political and cultural hub of the Tibetan community.
Initially initiated by Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, the new Potala Road holds powerful symbolism, as it reflects the desires and prayers of the Tibetan community for His Holiness's return to the Potala Palace in Tibet.
Extending his gratitude to the Chief Minister and the people of Himachal Pradesh, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay said, "I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for this beautiful gesture on the part of the Chief Minister and the people of Himachal Pradesh."
Previously known as Jogiwara Road, the new name is not the only recent change, as the road is currently under long needed construction. The road is now widened and completely renovated with 7-inch concrete to withstand the long monsoon of Dharamshala, notorious for its high-density rainfall. The renovation of the road is also expected to generate more tourists.
"With the reconstruction of the road, His Holiness the Dalai Lama who journeys regularly through this road during his numerous out-station visits would surely have a smoother experience," a local Tibetan resident exclaimed.
