Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA, Dec 15: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti has declared a total shutdown of Katra town on December 18 to protest the proposed ropeway project.
In an interview with the Excelsior, Karan Singh, a committee member, explained that this decision was made during a meeting held today at Shalimar Park, Katra, which was attended by local traders, stakeholders, and residents concerned about the project’s impact. He emphasized that the local community is firmly against the ropeway, expressing concerns that it could adversely affect the livelihoods of shopkeepers and disrupt the area’s traditional pilgrimage atmosphere.
During the gathering, Samiti representatives urged attendees to unite in defense of the town’s economic and cultural integrity. Karan Singh further stated that the shutdown is intended to draw the government’s attention to the potential negative effects of the ropeway project. “The Samiti is committed to intensifying its protests until their concerns are addressed. We will outline further action strategies in upcoming meetings,” he added.
Members of the Sangharsh Samiti and other stakeholders participated in a large rally in Katra Town, featuring former Minister Jugal Kishore Sharma and other prominent figures.
