Jammu Tawi: Shiv Sena (UBT) Jammu-Kashmir unit has expressed support for the four-day strike by local traders, horse and pony service operators on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route, in protest against the proposed ropeway project in Tarakot, Katra. The party has appealed to the Shrine Board to reconsider the project, urging them to avoid harming the natural beauty of the pilgrimage and the livelihoods of local workers. Manish Sahni, the state head of Shiv Sena (UBT), emphasized that while the party supports development, it opposes any initiatives that could hurt religious sentiments or impact local businesses and employment. He highlighted the potential negative effects of the ropeway, such as the disruption of businesses along the pilgrimage route and the degradation of the yatra’s natural experience. He also pointed out that devotees would miss key spiritual sites like Holy Banganga, Charan Paduka, and Ardhkunwari if the ropeway bypasses them. Sahni suggested that the ropeway project be moved beyond the Holy Charan Paduka temple, with the first stop at Ardhkunwari, to preserve the sanctity of the yatra and protect the interests of the local community. He also noted that previous infrastructure developments, such as rail and road routes, have already impacted important pilgrimage sites like Kol Kandoli and Deva Mai.
