ECONOMIC SETBACK
The repeated suspension of the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has once again exposed the fragility of Katra’s local economy, which depends almost entirely on pilgrimage-driven tourism in this area.
The frequent suspension of yatra has left traders, hoteliers, porters, and transporters in deep distress. Losses are estimated in hundreds of crores, with livelihoods of nearly two lakh people hanging in the balance in and around Katra.
While the Shrine Board’s caution in view of weather advisories is understandable, decisions of such magnitude must balance safety with socio-economic realities.
As several local stakeholders point out, blanket suspensions without real-time review create disproportionate hardships and economic distress for the local traders.
A more calibrated approach, allowing regulated movement when conditions permit, would serve both safety and sustainability and save the local traders from the losses.
Katra’s resilience has always been a source of strength for Jammu region, but resilience alone cannot sustain livelihoods in the face of prolonged shutdowns being announced by the Shrine Board.
