DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
jammu, Dec 30
Protesting against the installation of the proposed ropeway project and demanding the release of detained persons, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti on Monday extended the shutdown call for three days till January 2, 2025.
The shutdown, however, has entered the sixth consecutive day with members of Sangharsh Samiti sitting on hunger strike demanding the release of 18 members of the Samiti.
“The shutdown call has been extended further for the next three days,” said one of the protestors at the hunger strike site.
He said that the hunger strike will continue until the detained members are not released, adding, “We are unitedly fighting and will not succumb to any pressure tactics.”
Meanwhile, the family members and relatives of the detained members of Sangharsh Samiti also joined the protest site.
All stakeholders including pony owners, shopkeepers, and other traders are protesting against the proposed ropeway project at Katra–the base camp of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
The businesses in Katra town remained completely closed given the shutdown.
Earlier on Wednesday, several people were detained by police during a protest.
Instead of finding a solution by holding deliberation, the protestors alleged that the government was derailing the issue and forcing them to agitate.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha speaking to a national daily here has said amid the Tarakote-Sanjhi Chhat ropeway controversy, “Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board will take care of the interests of all the stakeholders of Katra.”
The solution to the issue will be found through talks and a high-level committee is making efforts in this direction.
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board last month, announced plans to install the Katra-Sanjhi Chhat ropeway to facilitate access to the temple for senior citizens, children, and others who find it challenging to trek the 13-km-long path to the cave shrine.
The proposed Rs 250-crore project aims to connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, which leads to the shrine.
The pilgrims, however, faced difficulties in view of the shutdown in Katra town but the Shrine Board has made the Langar facility available at different spots to offer tea, milk, and other items to the pilgrims for a smooth Yatra.
The Yatra this year has crossed 93 lakh mark.
