Religious and Environmental Concerns Fuel Opposition to Bijli Mahadev Ropeway

The Bijli Mahadev Ropeway project, a key initiative, faces strong opposition from local communities in the Kullu Valley. The project aims to provide easier access to the Bijli Mahadev temple, a highly revered religious site atop a hill. Kullu, renowned for its religious significance, is also home to the Hadimba Devi temple, the Jamlu Maharaj temple, and numerous local deities, drawing a substantial number of visitors. Local residents have expressed their concerns over the past few years, emphasizing their deep-rooted religious beliefs and the potential impact of the ropeway. While the ropeway is expected to alleviate traffic and reduce travel time, concerns have been raised about the possible adverse effects on the area’s cleanliness and the increased challenges associated with managing tourist influx. The project has ignited local protests, reflecting the community’s strong opposition, with many people actively working to halt the project, emphasizing concerns about environmental damage, the loss of livelihoods, and the potential disruption to the area’s spiritual significance.