Manora Island: US AFCP to provide $250,000 to rehabilitate Varun Dev Temple

American Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale announced on Tuesday that the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) will provide $250,000 in funding to rehabilitate Varun Dev Temple on Manora Island. This is the second AFCP grant in Sindh province. The first announced in 2014 - is working to restore the tombs of Sultan Ibrahim and Amir Sultan Muhammad at the Makli Hill necropolis in Thatta.
"The US embassy is honoured to partner the Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society to protect this temple from further erosion and degradation," said Ambassador Hale. The grant covers documentation and survey studies, stabilization of temple structures, landscaping, informational displays, and community engagement. "Manora Island is an example of Pakistan's religious diversity, interfaith harmony, and rich cultural heritage," Hale said.
"The number of temples, churches, mosques and shrines on Manora Island represents a culture of tolerance among people belonging to different religious faiths and ethnic groups," he added. Ambassador Hale expressed his appreciation for the support of the Pakistan Navy, Manora Cantonment Board, and Karachi Cantonment Board for helping the Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society with logistical support and site maintenance.-PR