Debate Grows Over Ropeway Projects in Kashmir’s Eco-Sensitive Zones
SRINAGAR: The Central Government has announced plans to link 18 religious and tourist destinations with ropeways, including the Amarnath shrine in South Kashmir’s Pahalgam. The initiative aims to make the annual Amarnath Yatra more accessible, as many pilgrims struggle with the difficult terrain.
Currently, devotees reach the shrine via the 38-km Pahalgam route or the shorter but steeper 13-km Baltal track. The proposed ropeway from Baltal to the cave shrine, spanning 11.6 km, would be the longest among the planned projects. It is expected to reduce travel time and make the journey easier, especially for the elderly and those with mobility issues. Officials say it could also extend the pilgrimage beyond its usual 45- to 60-day window.
The Government has invited proposals for Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for all 18 ropeway projects, including the Amarnath shrine.
Meanwhile, another ropeway project in Pahalgam has raised environmental concerns. The Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) plans to connect Pahalgam with Baisaran meadow, but the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has objected to the felling of 700-800 conifer trees.
In response to these objections, JKCCC has suggested an alternative alignment passing through Pahalgam market.
The alternative route proposed by JKCCC has also been questioned, as it is unclear why it was chosen.
Despite these concerns, authorities argue that the gondola will boost tourism and position Pahalgam as a premier adventure destination. A drag lift is also being planned in Aru Valley to promote winter sports, with officials hopeful that these additions will transform Pahalgam into a year-round attraction. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the gondola is nearing completion, with the approval process in its final stages.
Local stakeholders have largely welcomed the initiative, citing its potential to boost tourism and create economic opportunities. However, the controversy surrounding deforestation and the broader pattern of infrastructure expansion in ecologically sensitive areas continues to generate debate. The proposed four-lane road to the Amarnath shrine and discussions about a railway line passing through wildlife sanctuaries have added to concerns about deforestation and the impact on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
A similar ropeway project in Katra faced massive protests, bringing the town to a standstill. Locals protested against Rs 250-crore ropeway in the Trikuta Hills. They fear job losses for pony and palanquin operators, shopkeepers, and porters. The ropeway, planned by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, aims to connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, easing the 13-km trek to the shrine, particularly for senior citizens and children.
Authorities claim the project will ease travel for pilgrims, but protestors demand its reconsideration
Balancing development and environmental sustainability remains a challenge for the region.
