A large protest took place in Katra against the planned ropeway project for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. People gathered to strongly oppose the idea and made it clear they will keep protesting until the plan is dropped completely.
The demonstrators shouted slogans against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). They said the project is moving ahead without properly listening to local people’s worries. Protesters promised to fight the ropeway “tooth and nail” – meaning with full determination. They added that they will not back any political party’s decision if it goes against the interests of ordinary people.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
During the protest, speakers praised Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and Bani MLA Rameshwar Singh. They thanked both leaders for standing with the local community and speaking out against the ropeway.
The crowd also criticised BJP MLA Baldev Sharma. They claimed he has personal interests in the project and said such private gains should not decide things that affect people’s jobs and daily lives.
People at the rally explained that the ropeway would harm traditional businesses in Katra. Many families depend on shops, hotels, pony rides, and other small services linked to pilgrims visiting the shrine on foot or by road. They fear the ropeway would take away customers and reduce employment in the area.
Speakers called on the government to think again. They asked for proper talks with all local groups – shopkeepers, pony owners, hoteliers, and others – before making any final decision.
The protest stayed peaceful from start to finish. The organisers warned that if their demands are ignored, they will hold more demonstrations in the coming days.
The event was reported by Kashmir News Trust (KNT). This protest shows how strongly locals feel about protecting their livelihood and the way pilgrims have visited the holy shrine for years.
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