The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has advanced plans to install the ropeway to facilitate access to the temple, particularly for senior citizens, children, and others who find the 13-kilometer trek challenging. The ropeway is expected to reduce the journey time from several hours on foot to approximately six minutes.
However, local business owners, including shopkeepers, pony operators, palanquin bearers, and other service providers, fear that the project will divert pilgrims away from Katra's market, adversely affecting their livelihoods. The Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, representing these stakeholders, led a protest march through the town, demanding the project's cancellation.
The shutdown led to the closure of shops and businesses, with traditional services for pilgrims suspended, effectively paralyzing daily life in Katra. A large rally, supported by various organizations, proceeded from Shalimar Park to Asia Chowk, where demonstrators held a sit-in. Participants, bearing placards and wearing black armbands, chanted slogans against the Shrine Board and the ropeway initiative.
Former minister Jugal Kishore Sharma, who joined the rally, criticized the project as a threat to the economic interests of Katra residents. He urged authorities to prioritize the livelihoods of locals and engage in dialogue with stakeholders before proceeding. Sharma emphasized that while they are not opposed to the Shrine Board, they stand against the ropeway project, which they believe could undermine both their economic well-being and religious sentiments.
The protesters also expressed concerns about the extension of the Delhi-Katra Expressway beyond the town, fearing it could further impact local businesses. They have demanded that the expressway project be halted at Katra to prevent additional economic disruption.
In response to the protests, Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Nidhi Malik, along with SSP Reasi, Paramvir Singh, engaged in discussions with the Sangharsh Samiti and other stakeholders. Following these talks, the Samiti announced a temporary suspension of the protest until December 23, pending further assurances from the administration. They warned of resuming protests if their demands are not addressed within the stipulated timeframe.