Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Services (JKPSC)

• 19 Dec 2024

Ropeway Project to Vaishno Devi Shrine

Why in News? 

Recently, a shutdown was observed in Katra to oppose a ropeway that will connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, along the 12-kilometre steep track of the Vaishno Devi shrine, in the Jammu region. 

 Key Points 

• Protest Against Ropeway Project: 
  • The Vaishno Devi Trek Mazdoor Union, voiced opposition to the ropeway project, stating it threatens the livelihood of over 60,000 families, including hoteliers, shopkeepers, pony operators, laborers, and transporters. 
  • The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti called for a shutdown in Katra, which disrupted business in the local market. 
  • Withdrawal of Shutdown Call: 
  • The Samiti withdrew the shutdown after receiving fresh assurances from local authorities. 
  • The Deputy Commissioner requested five days to analyze their demands, according to Samiti members. 
• Shrine Board Meeting Chaired by Lieutenant Governor: 
  • J&K Lieutenant Governor chaired the 73rd Meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board at Raj Bhawan. 
  • The Lieutenant Governor inaugurated new pilgrim-centric facilities and laid the foundation stone for a new exit track aimed at decongesting the Bhawan area. 
• Board's Decisions and Future Plans: 
  • The Shrine Board conducted a comprehensive review of its previous decisions but did not issue a specific statement on the ongoing protests in Katra. 
  • The Lieutenant Governor emphasized improving transparency and efficiency to enhance the pilgrim experience. 
• MoU to Address Landslides: 
  • The Board approved a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and THDC India Limited (THDCIL). 
  • The MoU aims to identify and treat slopes vulnerable to landslides and rockfalls along the Yatra route between Adhkuwari and Bhawan. 

 Vaishno Devi Temple 

• The temple is located at 5,200 feet in the Trikuta mountains, sees over one crore visitors annually, with a 12 km trek from Katra. 
• Key Landmarks: Darshani Deodhi, Banganga, Chara Paduka, Indraprastha, Adhkuari, Garbha Joon, Himkoti, Haathi Matha, Sanji Chhat Bhavan, Sher ka Panja and Bhairon Mandir. 

Migratory Birds in Hokersar Wetland

Why in News? 

The Hokersar wetland in Srinagar has transformed into a haven for numerous migratory birds, drawing the attention of locals and tourists alike. 

 Key Points 

• Winter Arrival of Migratory Birds: 
  • Many migratory birds from foreign countries flock to Hokersar wetland during winter, making it a popular destination. 
  • The wetland serves as a crucial stopover along the Central Asian Flyway, providing food, shelter, and breeding grounds for avian travelers. 
• Ideal Habitat for Birds: 
  • Hokersar’s rich flora and diverse water bodies make it a perfect refuge for species like the Siberian crane, bar-headed goose, and various ducks. 
• Conservation Efforts: 
  • Local authorities and conservation groups are working to protect Hokersar from threats like pollution and encroachment. 
  • Initiatives such as habitat restoration and proactive water management are vital to maintaining the wetland’s ecological health. 
  • The Forest Protection Force has been deployed to ensure the safety of the birds and prevent poaching. 

 Hokersar Wetland 

• Location: 
  • The Hokersar wetland, a Ramsar site, is situated in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It is also known as the ‘Queen Wetland of Kashmir’. 
• Geographic Setting: 
  • It is a natural, perennial wetland that is part of the Jhelum basin and is located in the northwest Himalayan biogeographic province of Kashmir, at the foot of the snow-draped Pir Panjal range. 
• Water Source: 
  • The wetland receives water from the Doodhganga River, a tributary of the Jhelum. 
• Flora and Fauna: 
  • It is home to the last remaining reedbeds of Kashmir and serves as a critical pathway for 68 waterfowl species. 
  • These birds, migrating from regions like Siberia, China, Central Asia, and Europe, include species such as the little cormorant, common shelduck, large egret, and great crested grebe. 
  • The wetland is vital for local biodiversity, offering food sources, spawning grounds, and nurseries for fish, along with breeding habitats for various species.