HLC holds 5th consultation meet with Katra stakeholders

Katra, Mar 17: The High Level Committee (HLC) framed by the Lt. Governor, JK-UT also Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) held its fifth crucial meeting with the representatives from various associations and groups including MLA, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Constituency, Katra; MLA Reasi, Chairman DDC, Reasi; Muskan Charitable Trust, Katra and Banganga-Charanpaduka Shops Association.
The meeting was promptly convened in response to requests from various associations and groups, demonstrating the committee’s proactive approach to community engagement and its commitment to soliciting local input on the ropeway project.
The committee headed by Dr. Ashok Bhan and also comprising of Suresh Sharma, Members of the SMVDSB, Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner of Jammu and Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB held discussions with associations and groups focused on addressing concerns and gathering feedback from stakeholders ensuring that their voices are also heard in the decision-making process for ropeway project as per directions of Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT).
The groups unanimously extended their wholehearted support to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board’s development initiatives, including the Passenger Ropeway project. They emphasized the need for sustainable development that enhances infrastructure, amenities and overall experience for pilgrims and locals.
However, they also stressed the importance of considering the concerns, needs and aspirations of the local population pertaining to safeguarding their livelihoods & up-gradation of the traditional track of the Banganga and termed it as crucial for striking a delicate balance between fostering developments and preserving the region’s unique religious, social and cultural heritage.
The stakeholders appreciated the priority darshan facility extended by the Board to the residents of Katra Town and all 41 villages in Sub-Division, besides, development of Trikuta Hills Parikrama Marg through construction of temples undertaken by the Board.
Muskan Charitable Trust, a Katra-based NGO dedicated to empowering differently-abled children advocated for the Ropeway Project with an aim to facilitate effortless access of divyang devotees to the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all devotees, especially the differently-abled community.
Dr. Bhan expressed his satisfaction with the meeting’s outcome stating that it concluded on a positive note with stakeholders committing to collaborative efforts for the region’s overall development. He emphasized that the HLC is committed to ongoing dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that every stakeholder’s voice is heard before reaching a final decision.