Shutdown and Hunger Strike in Holy Town: Protests Rock Katra Against Ropeway Project

Katra, the base camp for Mata Vaishno Devi, faces a shutdown due to protests against a proposed ropeway project. The town witnesses a hunger strike by youths demanding the release of detained protesters. Despite disruptions, pilgrims continue to flock to the shrine as New Year approaches.

In Katra, the base camp for Mata Vaishno Devi, a protest against a proposed ropeway project has triggered a week-long shutdown, causing significant disruptions.

Youths engaged in a hunger strike are demanding the release of fellow protesters who were detained. The shutdown has seen shops and traffic come to a standstill.

Despite the disruptions, pilgrims remain undeterred, flocking to the shrine on New Year's day, driven by faith rather than the conveniences impacted by the ongoing protest.

(With inputs from agencies.)