Protests in Katra Over Proposed ₹250-Crore Ropeway Project

Tensions in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, have escalated due to ongoing protests against a proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project. The protests, initiated by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, have entered their seventh day and coincide with a peak pilgrimage season. Local businesses and livelihoods are at stake, prompting widespread demonstrations.

Background of the Ropeway Project

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board announced the ropeway project to connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat. This initiative aims to ease the 13-km trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine, particularly benefiting senior citizens and children. The project is projected to cost around Rs 250 crore.

Local Opposition and Concerns

Local residents, including pony and palanquin owners, fear the project will threaten their livelihoods. The protests began in November 2023, intensifying on December 25 when local business owners called for a 72-hour bandh. Protesters demand a reconsideration of the project, citing potential job losses.

Recent Developments in Protests

Demonstrations have escalated since November 22, with instances of stone-pelting leading to police intervention. The situation prompted authorities to conduct a flag march to maintain order. The shutdown, initially for 72 hours, has been extended until January 1, 2025, suspending all commercial activities in Katra.

Detentions and Hunger Strikes

Several protest leaders were detained during a march on December 25, inciting a hunger strike by eight youths demanding their release. One youth’s health has deteriorated, necessitating hospitalisation. Concerns have been raised by Congress leaders regarding the treatment of detained protesters.

Government’s Response and Future Outlook

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the protests, assuring that local losses would be considered. He stated that the project is nearly complete and would enhance tourism in the region. Sinha emphasised that 90% of the work has been finalised, with expectations for completion by January 2025.

Key Facts about Vaishno Devi Temple

The Vaishno Devi Temple is dedicated to Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasarasvati.

It is situated on the Trikuta Mountain in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, at an elevation of 1,500 meters (5,000 feet).

It is considered a Shakti Pitha in the Shakti tradition.

This temple was mentioned in historical records as early as 1846, when Maharaja Gulab Singh included it in the Dharmarth Trust to manage temples in his territory.

After India’s independence, the trust remained under the descendants of Gulab Singh until 1986, when control was transferred to the Shrine Board through legislation by Governor Jagmohan.

GKToday Notes:

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti: This local group leads protests against the Katra ropeway project. They advocate for local livelihoods and have organised demonstrations since November 2023.
Tarakote Marg: This route serves as the starting point for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. It was inaugurated in 2018 to ease congestion and improve safety for pilgrims traversing the trek.
Sanji Chhat: This destination is part of the proposed ropeway project. It aims to reduce the 13-km trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine, especially benefiting seniors and children.
Bandh: A term for a shutdown or strike, it was called by local business owners. The recent 72-hour bandh aimed to pressure authorities regarding the proposed ropeway project.