Himachal Pradesh: Bollywood actress and BJP member Kangana Ranaut has raised objections against a central government project, the ₹272 crore ‘Bijli Mahadev Ropeway’ in Kullu. Nitin Gadkari had announced the ropeway project at Kharahal Valley in Himachal Pradesh six months ago. However, Kangana Ranaut has now initiated opposition to the project.
Local Opposition: Local residents have been protesting against the Bijli Mahadev ropeway project for several days. They have conducted protests, citing concerns over employment loss due to the construction of the ropeway. Additionally, they fear environmental damage as numerous trees might be cut down during the construction.
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Kangana Ranaut’s Statement: Regarding this project, Kangana Ranaut shared insights after meeting with Nitin Gadkari. She emphasized the significance of prioritizing divine orders over modernization. “If our deities are not pleased, then this project should stop right here. I will again meet Nitin Gadkari,” she added.
Tourist Accessibility: Nitin Gadkari had initiated the construction of the Bijli Mahadev ropeway in the Mohal Nature Park in Kullu. The ropeway, set to be completed in two years, promises to bring around 36,000 tourists to Bijli Mahadev daily, benefiting local tourism significantly. Currently, it takes tourists 2 to 3 hours to reach Bijli Mahadev, but with the ropeway, they can reach within seven minutes.
Capacity and Details: Anil Sen, manager of National Highway Logistics Management Limited, stated that the ropeway, a mono cable, will have 55 cabins. It will initially transport 1,200 people per hour, with plans to increase the capacity to 1,800.
About Bijli Mahadev: Located in the picturesque village of Kashawari in the Kullu Valley, Bijli Mahadev Temple stands at an altitude of 2,460 meters. Known for its ancient Shivlinga, the temple witnesses a unique phenomenon where the Shivlinga is struck by lightning every 12 years, splitting it into pieces, which priests then mold back together with a paste of wheat flour, barley, and ghee. The temple’s magnificence attracts visitors from across India and abroad.
