Jammu & Kashmir, Dec 25: A 72-hour shutdown will begin on Wednesday in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine, in protest against the proposed ropeway project. The strike, organized by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti, seeks to halt the development of the ropeway, which is planned along the trek route to the shrine.
The shutdown, set to involve local pony wallas, shopkeepers, and other proprietors, will see all activities in Katra suspended during the bandh. The protest comes after discussions between the Samiti and local authorities failed to resolve the issue.
“We have announced a 72-hour bandh in Katra starting tomorrow against the ropeway project. We seek the support of all residents of Katra to make the strike successful,” a spokesperson for the Samiti said.
The Samiti had been expecting a meeting with authorities on December 23, but the meeting was postponed to 3 p.m. on Tuesday. Following the discussions with the Deputy Commissioner, the Samiti was informed that more time was needed for deliberations with higher authorities, prompting the decision to proceed with the shutdown.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board had approved the installation of the ropeway to facilitate easier access to the temple for senior citizens, children, and others who find the 13-kilometer trek to the cave shrine challenging. The Rs 250-crore project will connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, ultimately leading to the Vaishno Devi cave shrine in Reasi district.
Opponents of the project argue that it will undermine the traditional pilgrimage experience and disrupt local livelihoods. However, supporters emphasize its potential to provide a more accessible route for those unable to undertake the strenuous climb.
