Tension continue in IIOJK’s Katra over ropeway issue
Jammu: Tensions continues in Katra, Reasi district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, over the proposed ropeway project on the Bhawan route to the shrine of Vaishno Devi as local stakeholders observed a day-long shutdown and markets remained closed and several hotels displayed “No Ropeway” posters outside their premises as a mark of opposition to the project.
According to Kashmir Media Service, as part of the protest, the Sangarsh Samiti announced the closure of all private shops from Banganga to the Milk Bar area and invited horse, pithu, and palki operators to join the shutdown. The committee stated that the movement is aimed at protecting the livelihoods and interests of local residents.
A protest march was also taken out, which began from Raghunath Mandir and culminated at Sridhar Chowk, where the demonstrators staged a protest sit-in. The Samiti warned that if the high-level committee fails to take concrete steps addressing their demands, the agitation will be intensified further. Appealing to devotees for support, the protesters clarified that their movement is not against faith but in defence of local interests and livelihoods.
The ropeway project was proposed to be initiated in 2024 by the Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. At that time, residents of Katra had staged an 18-day-long protest and strike, following which the Board temporarily deferred the project and constituted a committee to examine the concerns.
Those connected with the pilgrimage economy claim that nearly 4.5 lakh livelihoods could be affected if the ropeway becomes operational.
