JAMMU: The lockdown in Katra town in J&K’s Reasi district against the proposed ropeway project entered the third day on Friday even as Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samitiwho led the strike, extended the agitation for another 72 hours and said all activities in the holy city would remain suspended during the lockdown.
Meanwhile, the J&K unit of the Sena (UBT) claimed that the ropeway project would destroy the mythological form of the ancient shrine by encouraging devotees to undertake an incomplete journey, calling it a “mockery” of religious faith. J&K Sena (UBT) president Manish Sahni led some members to join the protest in Katra, but the police detained them near Numai area and sent them back to Jammu.
Till the time of writing this edition, the Samiti was meeting representatives of Katra Hotels and Lodgings Association and Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) for further action. “The bandh is taking place peacefully. Our simple demand is shelving of the project as it threatens the livelihood of thousands of people,” a Samiti spokesperson said at the protest site in Fountain Square, near the main Katra bus stand.
“Our hunger strike will continue until the 18 people detained on Wednesday are released,” said one strike participant. Criticizing the administration for its lack of commitment, the spokesperson said, “Instead of initiating dialogue, the administration resorted to force, including arresting Samiti leaders during a peaceful protest. “They are creating an unnecessary crisis with their rigid approach.”
In Jammu, the Shiv Sena Dogra Front extended its support to the pilgrims facing difficulties due to the bandh, urging that the issue be resolved amicably.
After shelving the project several times in the past due to similar protests, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has decided to go ahead with the Rs 250 crore passenger ropeway project from Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat along the 12 km route to the sanctuary. The service aims to facilitate access to the sanctuary for seniors, children and others who find the 13 kilometer walk challenging.
The Samiti, who represent traders, pony operators and palanquin owners, have demanded that the project be shelved, claiming that it would not only destroy the livelihoods of local business owners but also alter the original form of the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra, as written in ancient scriptures.
Meanwhile, the Shrine Board has arranged accommodation and lodging for pilgrims arriving in the city, besides organizing special langars (community kitchens) at Katra railway station, Banganga and Tarakote, to alleviate the hardships of pilgrims and ensure that the yatra continues smoothly on both tracks.