Katra to observe shut down on Dec 18 against ropeway project

Members of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti and stakeholders assemble at Katra in protest against proposed ropeway project.
Members of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti and stakeholders assemble at Katra in protest against proposed ropeway project.

Excelsior Correspondent

KATRA, Dec 15: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti has announced a complete shutdown of Katra town on December 18 in protest against the proposed ropeway project.
While talking to the Excelsior, Karan Singh- member of the committee said that the decision was taken during meeting held today at Shalimar Park, Katra, attended by local traders, stakeholders, and residents concerned about impact of the proposed project. He reiterated that locals strongly oppose the ropeway, citing fears that it will harm the livelihoods of local shopkeepers and disrupt the traditional pilgrimage ecosystem.

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Addressing the gathering, representatives of the Samiti called for a united front to protect the town’s economic and cultural heritage. Karan Singh further said that, the shutdown aims to draw the Government’s attention to the potential consequences of the ropeway project. “The Samiti has vowed to escalate its protests until their demands are addressed. Further strategies for the movement will be discussed in upcoming meetings,” he added.
Members of the Sangharsh Samiti and all the stakeholders also took out a massive rally in Katra Town, which was attended by former Minister Jugal Kishore Sharma and others.