BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, representing the Mandi constituency, has taken a stand against a significant project initiated by the central government. Just six months ago, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the construction of a cable car to the revered Bijli Mahadev Temple in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, with an investment of ₹272 crores. However, Ranaut has now voiced her opposition to the project.
Local Residents Raise Concerns
The cable car project has faced strong resistance from residents of the Kharahal and Kashawari valleys. Villagers have organized numerous protests, expressing fears that the cable car could anger the deities and disrupt their livelihoods. They are particularly concerned about the environmental impact, as the construction would involve cutting down several trees.
Kangana Ranaut’s Statement
In her recent remarks, Kangana Ranaut revealed that she has met with Nitin Gadkari to discuss the project. “If our deities do not approve, then this project should be halted. I will meet Gadkari again; the wishes of our deities are more important than modernization,” she emphasized.
Project Overview
The cable car project was virtually inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari at Mohal Nature Park in Kullu. It is expected to be completed within 18 months, enabling up to 36,000 tourists to visit Bijli Mahadev daily, significantly boosting local tourism. Currently, visitors spend 2 to 3 hours traveling by road, but with the cable car, the journey will be reduced to just seven minutes.
Capacity and Features
The cable car, developed by National Highways Logistics Management Limited, will feature a mono-cable system with 55 cabins. It is designed to transport 1,200 passengers per hour, with the potential to increase capacity to 1,800.
The Legend of Bijli Mahadev
The Bijli Mahadev Temple, situated at an altitude of 2,460 meters in the picturesque Kashawari village, is one of India’s ancient temples. The legend behind its name is fascinating: every 12 years, lightning strikes the Shiva Lingam, breaking it into pieces. The priest collects the fragments and reassembles them using a mixture of lentil flour, grains, and butter. This temple attracts devotees from across the country and beyond, drawn by its rich history and spiritual significance.
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