Himachal : Bollywood actress and BJP member Kangana Ranaut has voiced strong opposition to the ₹272 crore Bijli Mahadev Ropeway project in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. The project, announced by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari six months ago, aims to improve tourist access to the Bijli Mahadev Temple, but it has sparked significant protests from local residents and environmental activists.

Local Protests Over Environmental Concerns

For several days, locals have been protesting against the construction of the ropeway, fearing that it will lead to deforestation and job losses in the region. Residents argue that the project could destroy the area’s natural beauty by cutting down a significant number of trees, which are vital to the local ecosystem.

Kangana Ranaut’s Statement

Kangana Ranaut, after meeting with Nitin Gadkari, has joined the opposition, stressing the need to respect religious and cultural sentiments. She emphasized that divine orders should be considered before moving ahead with such projects. “If our deities are not pleased, then this project should stop right here. I will meet Nitin Gadkari again to discuss the concerns,” she said.

Tourism Boost and Project Details

The ropeway project is designed to reduce travel time for tourists visiting the Bijli Mahadev Temple. Currently, visitors take 2 to 3 hours to reach the temple, but the ropeway will shorten this time to just seven minutes, potentially bringing in up to 36,000 tourists daily. This could provide a substantial boost to the local tourism industry.

Anil Sen, manager of National Highway Logistics Management Limited, revealed that the ropeway will feature 55 cabins and initially transport 1,200 people per hour, with plans to increase this to 1,800 passengers per hour in the future.

About Bijli Mahadev Temple

The Bijli Mahadev Temple, located at an altitude of 2,460 meters in the Kullu Valley, is renowned for its ancient Shivlinga. Every 12 years, the Shivlinga is struck by lightning, shattering it, after which local priests restore it using a mixture of wheat flour, barley, and ghee. The temple’s spiritual significance and scenic beauty attract pilgrims and tourists from across the country.

As opposition to the project grows, the future of the ropeway remains uncertain, with Kangana Ranaut and local protesters pushing for a reevaluation of its impact