Archive · 16 Jan 2026
Locals protest proposed Vaishno Devi ropeway
People in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir are upset because the government wants to build a ropeway to the Vaishno Devi shrine.
They think this will hurt their jobs because many people make money by helping pilgrims travel to the shrine.
They want the government to give them money to make up for their lost jobs before they build the ropeway.
They say more than 60,000 families will be affected.
They had a big meeting to talk about this and told the government they will protest if they don't listen.
Locals in Katra protest the proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway to Vaishno Devi shrine.
Workers fear the ropeway will adversely impact their livelihoods, particularly those in accommodation and transportation services.
Over 60,000 families, including hoteliers, shopkeepers, pony operators, and laborers, are expected to be affected.
Protesters demand Rs 20 lakh compensation per worker before the project's installation.
The Sangharsh Samiti opposes the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board's decision to install the ropeway.
- Who
- Workers and locals in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
- What
- Protest against the proposed ropeway to Vaishno Devi shrine
- When
- January 16, 2024
- Where
- Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
- Why
- Fear of loss of livelihood due to the ropeway project
- Project Cost
- Rs 250 crore
- Proposed Route
- Tarakote Marg in Katra to Sanji Chhat hilltop
- Distance
- 12 km
- Affected Families
- Over 60,000
- Compensation Demanded
- Rs 20 lakh per worker
- Protest Location
- Shalimar Park, Katra
- Opposing Group
- Sangharsh Samiti
- Authorities Involved
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, J-K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha