Katra, Feb 18, KNT: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday appealed to the inhabitants of Katra not to worry about the proposed ropeway project, asserting that their livelihood would not be adversely affected.
Speaking to reporters after laying the foundation stone of the Sri Shankaracharya Temple on adjoining hillocks of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, Sinha said the government remains committed to safeguarding the economic interests of local stakeholders.
He said the temple project, originally conceived in the 1960s, marks an important step in strengthening the spiritual and tourism infrastructure of the region. The Lieutenant Governor added that several other religious projects are in the pipeline for Katra, which he said would further enhance its status as a prominent pilgrimage destination.
Sinha expressed confidence that the city would witness increased footfall of devotees in the coming years, resulting in expanded economic opportunities for locals associated with pilgrimage and allied services.
The ropeway project has generated apprehension among certain sections in Katra who fear it could impact traditional means of livelihood linked to pilgrimage activities. The Lieutenant Governor, however, reiterated that development initiatives would be carried out in a manner that ensures inclusive growth.
He maintained that the government’s objective is to facilitate pilgrim convenience while simultaneously promoting sustainable development in the region. [KNT]
