The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has announced exciting news for devotees, as it has decided to implement the long-awaited ropeway project to make the pilgrimage faster and more convenient.
Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shrine Board, said, "The ropeway project will be a transformational initiative, especially for devotees who find the 13-km steep climb to the temple challenging."
Addressing reporters in Katra, Garg confirmed, "The board has finally decided to go ahead with the ropeway project." Once completed, the project is expected to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims visiting the holy shrine every year.
He said, "Last year, the pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi set a new record, with over 9.5 million devotees visiting the temple." Garg stressed that the project had been under discussion for several years, and the board has now decided to go ahead while ensuring better facilities for the devotees.
"The ropeway will especially benefit elderly pilgrims and those who face physical challenges or are unable to use the limited helicopter services available," he said. Additionally, the board assured that the concerns of local stakeholders will be taken into account during the implementation of the project.
Officials said that once the decision is finalised, the ground work for the project is expected to begin soon. The ropeway will connect the Tarakote Marg to the main Teerth Kshetra Bhawan. They also informed that the project has been carefully planned to minimise environmental impact, while enhancing the spiritual and aesthetic experience for pilgrims by offering breathtaking views of the Trikuta hills.
The ropeway is expected to handle several thousand pilgrims per day, significantly reducing congestion on the traditional walking path. Officials further said that the journey on foot currently takes hours, but it will now be reduced to just a few minutes, providing a more comfortable and efficient option for the devotees.
