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| Vaishno Devi Ropeway Protests Turn Violent in Katra, Work Suspended Amid Rising Tensions | | | Ashwani Sharma
Early Times Report
Katra, Nov 25: Tensions in Katra escalated as protests against the Vaishno Devi ropeway project entered their third consecutive day.
The demonstrators, comprising mule owners, porters, and shopkeepers, expressed fears that the project would disrupt their livelihoods. While the ropeway aims to improve access to the Vaishno Devi shrine, locals argue it threatens their traditional means of income.
The situation turned violent today when police tried to disperse the protesters. The demonstrators retaliated with stone-pelting, injuring SHO Katra, Inspector Chaman Gorkha, and his two PSOs. Protesters clarified that their opposition is not against development but against the potential economic fallout from the project.
The protest is being led by Bupinder Singh, alias Pinku, who has demanded a written assurance from the administration for compensation of ₹20 lakh per affected individual. Addressing the media, he said:
“We are not against progress, but it must not come at the cost of our livelihoods. The administration must acknowledge the losses we will face and ensure fair compensation.”
The protesters have vowed to continue their agitation and prevent the resumption of construction until their demands are addressed.
Reasi Deputy Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan and SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh held talks with the protesters and their leader to diffuse the situation.
The administration sought time until December 15 to address the issues and assured that construction on the ropeway would remain suspended until a resolution is reached.
When contact Deputy Commissioner Reasi Vishesh Paul Mahajan , He said We have spoken to the protesters and their leader, and steps will be taken to find a solution.
The Shrine Board has been instructed to halt work on the project for now.
However, resolving these issues will take time, as their demands will be escalated to higher authorities to ensure their concerns are addressed. Once their problems are sorted, the project work can resume.”
The temporary halt of the ropeway project highlights the delicate balance between infrastructural development and protecting the livelihoods of local communities. While the ropeway promises a faster, more efficient pilgrimage experience, it has sparked concerns of economic displacement among those dependent on existing transportation systems.
As discussions continue, the resolution of these protests will be pivotal in determining the project’s future and its long-term impact on Katra’s socio-economic fabric. |
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