Katra Ropeway Project Sparks Protests in Jammu and Kashmir

Tensions in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, are escalating due to protests against a proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project. Spearheaded by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, the protests have entered their seventh day. This unrest coincides with a peak pilgrimage season, as devotees flock to the Vaishno Devi shrine for New Year’s celebrations. Katra is a vital hub for these pilgrims, offering essential facilities and access to the shrine.

Katra – A Pilgrimage Hub

Katra serves as the starting point for the trek to the Vaishno Devi temple. The town is equipped with accommodations, shops for religious offerings, and other facilities. The trek from Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat was inaugurated in 2018 to ease congestion and enhance safety for pilgrims. This route prohibits vehicles, with options for horses, palanquins, and porters provided by a municipal committee.

The Proposed Ropeway Project

The ropeway project aims to connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat. It is designed to alleviate the strenuous 13-km trek, particularly benefiting senior citizens and children. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 250 crore. While it promises to make travel faster and safer, the local community has expressed concerns.

Local Opposition and Economic Concerns

Local opposition to the project has grown, particularly among pony and palanquin owners and shopkeepers. They fear that the ropeway will undermine their livelihoods. Protests began in November and intensified on December 25, when local business owners initiated a 72-hour bandh. This shutdown has resulted in a complete halt of commercial activities in Katra.

Escalation of Protests

The demonstrations have led to violent confrontations, including stone-pelting incidents, prompting police intervention. Authorities have conducted flag marches to maintain order. The ongoing protests have also seen the detention of several protest leaders, leading to hunger strikes among their supporters.

Government Response

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has addressed the protests, assuring locals that their concerns will be taken into account. He emphasised the project’s potential to boost tourism in the region. Despite the unrest, he stated that 90% of the work is complete and expressed optimism for the project’s conclusion by January.

Impact on Pilgrimage and Local Economy

The ongoing protests have disrupted the pilgrimage experience for many devotees. Local businesses are suffering due to the shutdown. The future of the ropeway project remains uncertain as negotiations between protest leaders and government officials continue.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the impact of infrastructure projects on local economies, using the Katra ropeway project as an example.
2. Discuss in the light of recent protests how local communities can influence government policy decisions.
3. Explain the role of tourism in the economic development of Jammu and Kashmir. What challenges does it face?
4. With suitable examples, discuss the socio-political implications of public protests in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the impact of infrastructure projects on local economies, using the Katra ropeway project as an example.

1. Infrastructure projects can enhance connectivity and accessibility, potentially boosting tourism.
2. Local economies may suffer if projects threaten existing livelihoods, as seen with local pony and palanquin owners.
3. Economic benefits may not be evenly distributed, leading to disparities among different community members.
4. Protests can arise when locals feel excluded from decision-making processes affecting their livelihoods.
5. Long-term impacts depend on community engagement and compensation strategies for affected individuals.

2. Discuss in the light of recent protests how local communities can influence government policy decisions.

1. Protests serve as a platform for communities to voice concerns and demand reconsideration of government projects.
2. Organized groups, like the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, can mobilize public sentiment effectively.
3. Demonstrations can lead to negotiations with authorities, as seen in the Katra case.
4. Media coverage amplifies community voices, influencing public opinion and government action.
5. Persistent protests can result in policy revisions or project halts, showcasing the power of grassroots movements.

3. Explain the role of tourism in the economic development of Jammu and Kashmir. What challenges does it face?

1. Tourism is revenue source for Jammu and Kashmir, providing jobs and boosting local businesses.
2. The region’s natural beauty and religious significance attract millions of pilgrims and tourists annually.
3. Challenges include political instability, security concerns, and infrastructure deficits that deter visitors.
4. Seasonal fluctuations in tourist numbers can lead to economic instability for local businesses.
5. Environmental degradation from over-tourism poses risks to the region’s natural resources and long-term sustainability.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the socio-political implications of public protests in India.

1. Public protests can highlight social injustices, as seen in various movements across India, prompting government accountability.
2. They often reflect deeper societal issues, such as economic disparity or cultural grievances, influencing political discourse.
3. Successful protests can lead to policy changes, as demonstrated by movements like the Anna Hazare anti-corruption protests.
4. Protests can also polarize communities, leading to tensions between different social groups or the state.
5. The response of authorities can shape public perception and trust in governance, impacting future civic engagement.