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KATRA: Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, has raised serious concerns over the ongoing agitation in the holy town of Katra regarding the Shree Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board's decision to implement the ropeway project from Tarakot (Katra) to Sanjichat.
In a statement issued today, the senior NC leader acknowledged the commendable efforts of the Shrine Board in enhancing facilities for pilgrims visiting the revered shrine. However, he emphasized the need for the Board to consider the plight of those whose livelihoods are intrinsically tied to the pilgrimage economy, including business community of Katra town, shopkeepers on the way from Katra to Sanjichat, pithus, ponywalas, palkiwalas, and other daily wage earners.
Rattan Lal Gupta highlighted that the relocation of the new bus stand of Delhi Katra express and the proposed ropeway station, Tarakot situated three kilometers away from the old bus stand, poses a significant threat to the livelihood of thousands of laborers who rely on visiting pilgrims. He said all such pilgrims diverted to the new system then it will severely affect the whole Katra market as well as the daily wagers earners.
"While development is necessary, it should not come at the cost of the well-being of local communities whose lives revolve around the pilgrimage," he remarked. The senior NC leader urged the Shrine Board to hold extensive consultations with all stakeholders, ensuring that their concerns and livelihoods are safeguarded. He stressed that such discussions are crucial to maintaining harmony and ensuring that developmental initiatives enhance, rather than disrupt, the pilgrimage experience.
Rattan Lal Gupta also appealed to the Shrine Board to explore alternative measures that strike a balance between modernizing the pilgrimage infrastructure and protecting the interests of the local population dependent on it. He reiterated that the National Conference stands firmly with the people of Katra and remains committed to advocating for their rights.
