THE Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has decided toimplement thelongawaited ropeway project to address the gap between the demand and capacity of yatris and to facilitate the journey for elderlyanddifferently-abledpilgrims. Once completed, the ropewayis expected torevolutionise thepilgrimageexperience,making it safer, faster, and more inclusive for millions of devotees annually. “The board has finally decided to implement the ropeway project.Itwillalsolookintohow the concerns of the locals will be included in the project, so that the elders, specially-abled bodies also undertake yatra smoothly,” SMVDSB CEO AnshulGargsaidwhileaddressing reporters in Katra. The ropeway project will be a game changer, especially for those pilgrims who find it challenging to undertake the 13- kilometre steep trek to the shrine, he said. “It will also cater to the everincreasing number of devotees visiting theholycave eachyear,” Garg said, while addressing the reporters.

 

“As you know, the number of pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi is increasing every year. Last year, the yatra set a new record of over 95 lakh, surpassing a significant milestone in 2023,”Gargsaid,highlightingthe exponential growthin thenumber of devotees visiting the shrine annually.Theprojecthas been in discussion for several years, and the board has now resolved to move forward, ensuringbetter facilities forpilgrims, he said. “The ropeway will especially benefit elderly pilgrims and thosewhocannotcomplete the arduous trek due to physical limitationsor thelimitedcapacity of helicopter services,” Garg added. Inaddition, theboardemphasised that the concerns of local stakeholders would be consideredduring theproject’simplementation.

 

“We are committed to addressing the aspirations of all, including the locals while enhancing thepilgrimageexperience. This project will make the yatra smoother and more inclusive,” Garg assured. With the decision finalised, the board aims to begin the groundwork soon to fulfill its commitment tomaking theholy journey accessible to all devotees, officials said. As per the officials, the ropewaywillconnectTarakoteMarg to Bhawan, the main shrine area. With careful planning to minimise environmental impact, the route will provide stunning views of the Trikuta hills, enhancing the spiritual andscenic experience fordevotees, they said. The ropeway is expected to transport several thousand pilgrimsdaily, significantlyreducing congestion on the traditional trekking path. Theofficialssaid that thejourney will be reduced toafew minutescompared to thehourslong trek.