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The deadlock over the proposed Katra ropeway project in Mata Vaishno Devi continues as a high-level delegation from the Shrine Board held its third meeting with the Sangharsh Samiti on Thursday.

The delegation reiterated that the project aims to enhance pilgrim comfort and boost overall visitor numbers. It assured stakeholders that a final decision would only be taken after extensive consultations.

The talks resumed after a week-long shutdown following the detention of 18 protesters last year, who were released on December 31. This marks the third meeting between stakeholders and protesters, following discussions in May 2023 and February 2024.

Concerns raised by the Sangharsh Samiti include the impact on the sanctity of the traditional track and the livelihoods of locals dependent on shops, businesses, and services along the route. Stakeholders also expressed worries about the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway potentially affecting businesses in Katra town.

The committee assured the Samiti of the Shrine Board’s commitment to the comprehensive development of Katra’s base camp, shrine area, and traditional
track.

Prominent members of the Sangharsh Samiti, including Ajay Nanda, Vimal Indu, and others, participated in the discussions.

The Shrine Board announced plans for the Rs 250 crore ropeway project last November, connecting Tarakote Marg to Sanjichhat to aid pilgrims, especially senior citizens and children, in accessing the 13-km-long track to the cave shrine in Reasi district.