In Jammu and Kashmir, a proposed ropeway project at the Vaishno Devi shrine has sparked significant unrest among local horse, mule, and palanquin operators. The protesters, fearing a loss of livelihood due to the project, turned violent, pelting stones and clashing with police forces.Fear of livelihood lossThe opposition to the ropeway stems from concerns raised by the horse, mule, and palanquin operators who rely on the pilgrimage route for their income. These groups argue that the ropeway, once operational, will drastically reduce the demand for their services, effectively wiping out their traditional trade.जम्मू कश्मीर : माता वैष्णो देवी में रोपवे का विरोध कर रहे घोड़ा–खच्चर और पालकी वालों ने पुलिस फोर्स पर पत्थर बरसाए, मारपीट की। दरअसल ये लोग कई दिन से प्रोटेस्ट कर रहे हैं। इनका आरोप है कि रोपवे चलने से घोड़ा–खच्चर, पालकी कारोबार ठप हो जायेगा। pic.twitter.com/9RALpLkKoS— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) November 25, 2024“We have been providing services to pilgrims for generations. The ropeway will leave us jobless,” one protester asserted during the demonstrations.Protests turn violentThe protests, which had been peaceful over the past few days, escalated into violence. Demonstrators resorted to stone-pelting, leading to altercations with the police. Videos circulating on social media depict chaotic scenes as law enforcement officers attempted to control the situation.Authorities have stated that necessary measures are being taken to maintain order while addressing the concerns of the affected parties. A senior police official said, “We understand their grievances and are working on a resolution, but violence will not be tolerated.”Government responseThe ropeway project, touted as a faster and safer way for pilgrims to reach the shrine, has garnered support from several stakeholders. However, the government has assured a thorough review of the impact on local businesses. Discussions with the protesting groups are expected to continue in hopes of reaching a compromise.
