Growing Unrest in Katra Over Vaishno Devi Ropeway Plan
Katra, the gateway town to the Vaishno Devi shrine, faces upheaval as residents and environmentalists rally against a proposed ₹250-crore ropeway project. While officials claim it will ease pilgrimage congestion, protesters warn of ecological harm, livelihood losses, and cultural erosion.
Project Overview: Faster Access vs. Hidden Costs
The 2.5-km ropeway (Tarakote Marg to Bhawan) aims to:
– Reduce trekking route overcrowding
– Aid elderly/differently-abled devotees
– Cut travel time by 70%
But critics highlight:
– 5,000+ vendors, pony handlers, and porters risk unemployment
– Fragile Trikuta Hills ecology under threat
– Potential seismic and weather-related safety issues
4 Key Reasons Behind the Protests
- Environmental Breakdown
- 8,000+ trees marked for felling in landslide-prone zone
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Risks to endangered species like the Himalayan monal
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Economic Displacement
“Our families have served pilgrims for 3 generations,” says pony owner Abdul Khan. “The ropeway will erase our income overnight.” -
Sacred Journey vs. Commercial shortcut
Religious groups argue the trek’s austerity holds spiritual value. -
Safety Doubts
IIT-Roorkee’s 2022 report flagged wind vulnerability at 6,000 ft altitude.
Stakeholder Standoff
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Shrine Board (SMVDSB):
“We’ll replant 3x the lost trees,” says CEO Ramesh Kumar. -
Protest Leaders:
“No mitigation can offset irreversible damage,” counters activist Neha Patel. -
Political Angle:
Opposition demands white paper; ruling party cites tourism growth.
Next Steps: Dialogue or Deadlock?
A high-stakes public hearing is slated for August 20. The board may consider:
– Alternative routes with lower ecological impact
– Compensation packages for affected workers
