Katra Ropeway Project Sparks Controversy in Jammu

The proposed Katra-Sanjichhat ropeway project has ignited protests in Katra town, Jammu. Local traders and workers are voicing their concerns over the potential impact on their livelihoods. The Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board plans to install the ropeway to improve access to the popular pilgrimage site. The project aims to reduce travel time from Katra to the shrine while accommodating the increasing number of visitors.

Project Overview

The Katra-Sanjichhat ropeway will cost approximately Rs 300 crore. It is designed under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. The project aims to cut the current six to seven-hour trek to less than an hour. The ropeway will transport pilgrims from Katra to Sanjichhat in just six minutes. From Sanjichhat, a brief walk of 30 to 45 minutes will lead to the shrine. The project is expected to be completed by December 2026 and will have a capacity of 1,000 passengers per hour.

Local Opposition

The proposed project has faced backlash from various local stakeholders. The Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Sangarsh Samiti, representing local businesses, claims the project threatens the livelihoods of over 60,000 families. Shopkeepers, hoteliers, pony operators, and transport workers fear a decline in business due to reduced foot traffic along the traditional pilgrimage route. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has also voiced her opposition, emphasising the need to protect local livelihoods.

Benefits of the Ropeway

Proponents of the project argue that the ropeway will enhance the pilgrimage experience. It is expected to provide breathtaking views of the Trikuta Hills. The project aims to make the pilgrimage more accessible for senior citizens and individuals with health issues. Shrine Board officials assert that increased visitor numbers will ultimately benefit local businesses by creating more job opportunities.

Visitor Statistics

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine has seen a dramatic increase in visitors since the Shrine Board took over management in 1986. The number of pilgrims has risen from approximately 1.3 million to over 10 million annually. Improvements to the trekking paths, along with enhanced facilities, have contributed to this growth. The local hotel industry has also flourished, with many establishments operating around the clock.

Future Considerations

The Shrine Board has committed to addressing the concerns raised by local stakeholders. While the project promises to improve access and safety for pilgrims, balancing the needs of local businesses is crucial. The ongoing dialogue between the Shrine Board and the Sangarsh Samiti will be essential for finding a mutually beneficial resolution.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the socio-economic impact of pilgrimage tourism on local communities in India.
2. Critically discuss the role of Public Private Partnerships in infrastructure development in India. How do they affect local economies?
3. Analyse the challenges faced by traditional businesses in the face of modernisation and infrastructure projects.
4. Point out the significance of sustainable tourism in preserving cultural heritage sites in India. What measures can be taken to ensure it?

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the socio-economic impact of pilgrimage tourism on local communities in India.

1. Pilgrimage tourism generates revenue for local economies through hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.
2. It creates job opportunities, directly benefiting local families and businesses.
3. Increased visitor numbers can lead to infrastructural development, enhancing local amenities.
4. However, over-reliance on tourism can make communities vulnerable to economic fluctuations.
5. Social dynamics may shift, with traditional lifestyles altered by tourism demands and commercialization.

2. Critically discuss the role of Public Private Partnerships in infrastructure development in India. How do they affect local economies?

1. Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) leverage private investment for public infrastructure, reducing government financial burden.
2. They can lead to improved efficiency and innovation in project execution and management.
3. PPPs may enhance service delivery and infrastructure quality, benefiting local communities.
4. However, they can prioritize profit over public interest, risking local job loss and business decline.
5. Effective regulation and stakeholder engagement are crucial to ensure equitable benefits for local economies.

3. Analyse the challenges faced by traditional businesses in the face of modernisation and infrastructure projects.

1. Modernization can lead to reduced foot traffic for traditional businesses, impacting their revenue streams.
2. Infrastructure projects may divert visitors away from established routes, threatening local livelihoods.
3. Traditional businesses often lack the resources to compete with larger, modern enterprises that emerge from new developments.
4. Resistance to change may also arise among local workers accustomed to traditional practices and services.
5. Balancing modernization with the preservation of local businesses requires strategic planning and stakeholder collaboration.

4. Point out the significance of sustainable tourism in preserving cultural heritage sites in India. What measures can be taken to ensure it?

1. Sustainable tourism promotes responsible travel that conserves cultural heritage and natural environments.
2. It helps maintain the integrity of heritage sites, ensuring they remain valuable for future generations.
3. Engaging local communities in tourism planning encourages ownership and preservation efforts.
4. Implementing visitor limits and eco-friendly practices can mitigate environmental impacts.
5. Education and awareness programs can promote cultural appreciation and responsible tourism among visitors.