Katra residents oppose Vaishno Devi ropeway plan, allege threat to livelihoods of 60,000 families

Protests intensified in Jammu and Kashmir’s Katra town on Tuesday against the proposed ₹250-crore Vaishno Devi ropeway project, with locals alleging that it would severely impact their livelihoods. Demonstrators, including traders, pony operators, and youth, carried placards reading “No to Ropeway” and raised slogans demanding the cancellation of the plan.

The proposed ropeway is designed to connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat along the 12-kilometre steep trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi. Protesters said the project threatens the income of over 60,000 families dependent on the pilgrimage route, including hoteliers, shopkeepers, and labourers. They also accused the administration of going back on its promise to consult local residents before taking a final decision.

“We will not allow the ropeway project here. The divisional commissioner had promised 10 months ago that locals would be consulted, but the administration has ignored that assurance,” said protester Sahil Singh, warning that the agitation will continue until the project is shelved. Many protesters also announced plans to resume their hunger strike if their demands remain unaddressed.

Katra had previously witnessed week-long protests and a shutdown in December last year over the same issue. Following those demonstrations, the Jammu and Kashmir administration had formed a committee to hold talks with stakeholders, but protesters now allege no substantial action was taken.