Katra/Jammu- Jammu and Kashmir's Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, observed a shutdown on Wednesday in protest against the propo

A shutdown was observed in Katra town on Wednesday against the proposed plans of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) to install a ropeway to the cave shrine.

The ropeway project aims to connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat in Reasi district to make the 13-km Vaishno Devi trekking easier for pilgrims

Protests erupted in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, against a proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project. Led by the Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, locals claim the project threatens their livelihoods. Despite assurances,

Protest suspended till Dec 23 after assurance by local admn Nishikant Khajuria KATRA, Dec 18: Amid a massive protest demonstration by the local stakeholders, Katra observed a complete shutdown today against proposed Mata Vaishno Devi Ropeway Project from Tarakote to Sanji Chhat.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, a body representing shopkeepers, pony operators, and palanquin owners, reportedly decided on the bandh during a recent meeting, citing concerns about the ropeway’s adverse effects on Katra’s economy.

Shopkeepers in Katra protest against Vaishno Devi shrine ropeway, impacting business; authorities promise to analyze demands within 5 days.

Those opposing the project argue that ropeway will divert pilgrims from Katra’s market, leaving a negative impact on thousands of shopkeepers there.

A protest shutdown was held in Jammu and Kashmir's Katra on Wednesday against the proposed ropeway project between the town and