Jammu, December 27:
Today is the third day of the ongoing strike against the proposed Vaishno Devi ropeway project in Katra.
During the 72-hour bandh started by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti from Wednesday. Women and children have also started fasting. Their main objective is to demand the release of 18 arrested persons who were arrested during the demonstration.
The project, which costs Rs 250 crore, plans to install a ropeway along the 12-km route from Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat to facilitate senior citizens, children and other devotees to reach the cave temple. However, there is opposition against the project by local traders and other stakeholders as they feel the project will adversely affect their livelihood.
During the protest, black flags have been put up in Katra town. The shops, restaurants and other business establishments are closed, and vehicular movement has also come to a halt. The committee spokesperson criticized the administration, saying that the administration is unaware of the problems of the public.
