A three-day shutdown has been called in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, to protest the proposed ropeway project.
The bandh, initiated by pony owners, shopkeepers, and other stakeholders, began on Wednesday morning.
The Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Sangarsh Samiti, which announced the bandh, stated that all activities in the town would remain suspended during this period.
“We urge the residents of Katra to support the strike and make it successful,” a spokesperson for the Samiti said.
The protest follows the Shrine Board’s decision to install a ropeway to facilitate access to the temple for senior citizens, children, and others who find it challenging to climb the 13-km trek to the cave shrine. The proposed Rs 250-crore project will connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat.
The Samiti has expressed concerns over the economic impact of the ropeway on local businesses and pony operators, who rely on the pilgrimage economy.
“We met the Deputy Commissioner yesterday, but they sought more time to discuss the matter with higher authorities. Hence, we decided to go ahead with the strike,” the Samiti’s spokesperson added.
Local authorities have assured the protesters that their concerns will be addressed in subsequent discussions. However, the protesters have demanded a concrete resolution before they call off the bandh.
The Shrine Board has maintained that the ropeway project aims to enhance the pilgrimage experience and cater to the needs of vulnerable pilgrims while reducing overcrowding on the trek.
The ongoing strike has disrupted daily life in Katra, with shops closed and transportation services affected. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any untoward incidents.
This protest highlights the growing tension between developmental projects and local livelihoods in pilgrimage towns. PTI