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Shutdown in Katra to protest Vaishno Devi ropeway project

Shutdown in Katra to protest Vaishno Devi ropeway project
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Katra/Jammu, Dec 18 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir’s Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, observed a shutdown on Wednesday in protest against the proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project connecting Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, which leads to the cave shrine in Reasi district.

Alleging that the ropeway would destroy the livelihoods of local business owners, the Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, which claims to represent shopkeepers, pony operators and palanquin owners, led a protest march in the town and demanded that the project be scrapped.

Last month, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board decided to install the ropeway to facilitate access to the temple for senior citizens, children and others who find it difficult to climb the 13-km-long track to the cave shrine.

Wednesday’s shutdown disrupted normal life in the town, resulting in reduced vehicular traffic on the roads.

A large rally, backed by various organisations, was held by the Samiti from the Shalimar Park to oppose the ropeway project. Carrying placards and wearing black armbands, protestors raised slogans against the shrine board and the project.

 

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