Jammu, Dec 27 (NationPress) The demonstration against the ropeway initiative at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine base camp in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, has escalated into its third day on Friday, as additional protesters have joined the hunger strike.

The demonstrators are advocating for the cancellation of the ropeway project that is planned to connect Tarakote to Sanji Chhat, citing concerns that it would jeopardize the livelihoods of shopkeepers, hoteliers, transporters, pony and palki wallahs, as well as other individuals involved in businesses in Katra.

Furthermore, they are requesting the release of fellow protesters who were arrested by police during prior demonstrations.

The Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti has initiated a 72-hour shutdown that commenced on Wednesday. Women and children have recently joined the six protesters who began the hunger strike on Wednesday night.

The Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has sanctioned a Rs 300 crore passenger ropeway project spanning 12 kilometers from Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, despite having previously shelved the project due to similar protests.

The shrine board claims that the proposed project aims to enhance access to the temple for senior citizens, children, and others who face challenges in climbing the path to the cave shrine.

As a result of the protest, shops, restaurants, transportation services, and other businesses have been closed.

This shutdown has led to significant inconvenience for hundreds of devotees who visit daily to pay their respects at the deity’s shrine.

Leaders from the Sangarsh Samiti stated that they will soon determine their next steps.

One participant in the hunger strike required hospitalization after their health worsened. Eighteen protesters, including Sangarsh Samiti leaders Bhupinder Singh and Sohan Chand, were detained by police during Wednesday’s march.

The Jammu Shiv Sena Dogra Front (DFSS) has voiced its support for the pilgrims grappling with challenges due to the shutdown and has called for a peaceful resolution to the issue.

“We stand with the pilgrims and advocate for improved facilities. If necessary, establish two ropeways instead of one. Enhance amenities for accommodating pilgrims during the yatra,” stated DFSS President Ashok Gupta to reporters.

He noted that the pilgrimage has significantly bolstered Katra’s economy, and the shutdown is causing distress to pilgrims. Shopkeepers, hoteliers, transporters, and other businesspeople, including ponywallahs, rely heavily on the influx of pilgrims.

To mitigate the effects of the shutdown, the Shrine Board has organized lodging and boarding for pilgrims arriving in the area. Special langars at Katra railway station, Banganga, and Tarakote are offering tea and milk to ensure that the yatra proceeds smoothly on both tracks.

Leaders of the Sangarsh Samiti have expressed that they do not seek unnecessary confrontation with the authorities, as they are merely advocating for their basic right to livelihood.