Latest news with #BijliMahadev
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Residents of Bijli Mahadev launch campaign to stop ropeway project
1 2 3 Kullu: Ahead of its planned protest march, the Bijli Mahadev Ropeway Sangharsh Samiti (BMRSS) on Tuesday launched a village-to-village campaign to unite the residents against the ropeway project that is planned to come up on the scenic and sacred meadows of the Bijli Mahadev temple in Kullu district. Led by Suresh Negi, president, BMRSS, the committee members on Tuesday visited Pechha village near Bijli Mahadev and sought residents' help in opposing the ropeway project and to not let the govt convert their "place of faith into a tourist spot". The committee is planning to visit not only the villages of the Kullu valley but also the neighbouring Parvati valley to raise awareness about the environmental harms such a project can cause in Bijli Mahadev, a place of pilgrimage for the locals. "Our ongoing campaign is taking the shape of a mass movement against the ropeway project, which was finalised by the govt by ruthlessly ignoring the faith of the people and by keeping aside all the environmental concerns. Even Lord Bijli Mahadev has said no to this project but still the govt is adamant," said Negi. "The people of Kullu are uniting against the ropeway project, which is sure to destroy our sacred place of faith by converting it into a tourist spot. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Bijli Mahadev is not for sale and if needed we are ready to give our lives to save Bijli Mahadev," he said, adding that a massive protest would be held in Kullu on July 25. The residents of Kharal valley, which lies at the foothills of the Bijli Mahadev temple, have been holding agitations against the ropeway project for more than two years. They believe that the 2.4-km-long ropeway project would destroy the meadows of Bijli Mahadev, which is located at an altitude of around 2,460 metres. The meadows of Bijli Mahadev have been cracking up at several places and locals say that the ropeway project, which is to be built at an estimated cost of Rs 284 crore with a capacity of 36,000 passenger trips per day, would completely destroy the area. So far, no politician, neither from the Congress nor from the BJP, has come out in support of the residents, who kicked off the latest rounds of protests in the first week of this month when as many as 67 deodar trees were cut for the project by the National Highways Logistics Management Limited, which is building the ropeway. The angry residents last week forcefully stopped the tree-felling work in the Bijli Mahadev forest and have not allowed the transportation of timber. As per the project details, a total of 203 trees will be cut and around 3.1 hectares of forest land will be diverted for the project. "They came like thieves in the night and cut our trees when no one was watching. But we will not let this happen again. The villagers living near Bijli Mahadev have a right over the forest land and its trees under the Forest Rights Act. No prior permission was taken from the FRA committee to cut the trees. This fact makes it a crime," said Fateh Rana, general secretary, BMRSS. Rana said most of the panchayats of the Kharal valley had already given in writing that they have not provided a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the project. "Six panchayats have written to us saying they did not give NOCs and the rest will follow suit. If there was no NOC then how come this project was cleared?" Rana asked. When contacted, conservator, Kullu Forest Circle, Sandeep Sharma said all the requisite permissions for the project were in place. "This project has received stage-1 in-principal permission from the environment ministry. But since it's a linear project, the work can start before the stage-2 or the final permission. The project developer has already submitted the costs, including of trees to be cut and the environmental compensation for the forest land to be diverted for the project," said Sharma.
India.com
08-07-2025
- India.com
Visiting Kullu In 2025? These Travel Truths Might Surprise You
Kullu is a picturesque valley located in Himachal Pradesh, India and this is a place for nature enthusiasts, adventure buffs and cultural freaks. It is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, boasts of numerous activities to engage in, beautiful landscapes as well as cultural riches. This piece contains all you need to know before going for a trip to Kullu. Time To Visit The best time of visiting Kullu falls within April-June and September-November when the weather is favorable for outdoor activities like trekking, rafting and sightseeing. During these months, the temperature ranges from 10°C-25°C, which gives a comfortable climate to explore the place. Kullu experiences moderate weather conditions all year (April – June) are warm with temperature ranging between 10°C to 25°C making it an ideal period of time for adventure sports and sightseeing. On the other hand, winter (December – February) is characterized by cold weather whose temperatures can even go below -5 °C and rarely exceeds 10 °C along with snowfall often resulting in an enchanting view. To Reach Kullu is well connected with major cities which makes it easily reachable for travelers. The nearest airport to kullu is Bhuntar Airport (KUU) which lies about 10 kms away from Kullu. From there you can take a taxi or hire a cab till your final destination. Alternatively one can also board a bus or taxi from major cities such as Delhi , Chandigarh ,Shimla etc . For their ease regular bus services and private taxis are available too . There are ample options available in Kullu when it comes to accommodation as per different budgets and preferences. From budget hotels and guest houses to luxury resorts, you can choose one as per your is advisable that advance booking be done due to the high season, to avoid disappointments. In Kullu, the locals speak Hindi but a majority of them use English hence making it easier for tourists. You will also hear Pahari which is a local dialect especially in the rural areas. Kullu has a rich cultural heritage so it is important to respect its customs and traditions. When visiting temples and attending festivals, dress modestly and follow local etiquette. The people are known for their hospitality; therefore appreciating their culture will enhance your experience. Kullu offers an array of trekking trails with stunning views of the Himalayas which make it a perfect destination for trekkers. Some popular treks include Bijli Mahadev trek, Tirthan Valley Trek and Great Himalayan National Park Trek where you get to pass through dense forests , beautiful meadows as well as quiet hamlets . Beas River provides white water rafting opportunities for adventure lovers. The river has various grades of rapids suitable both for beginners and experienced rafters. Rafting can be enjoyed between April-June and September-October when water levels are just right. Go through the skies and witness the breathtaking views of Kullu valley by paragliding. In Solang Valley, near Manali, there is a common place for paragliding where you can fly in tandem with an experienced pilot. This fun activity is best done during summer when the weather is fair. Visits Kullu has many ancient temples that reflect its spiritual heritage. Some of them are Raghunath Temple dedicated to lord Rama, Bijli Mahadev Temple famous for its beautiful views & sacred Shiva lingam amongst others. These temples are not just sacred but they also stand as miracles of construction. Traditional Himachali meal made up of rice, lentil and vegetables mainly served during festive seasons and special is a nutritious mouth-watering meal reflecting regional culinary tradition. Kullu is generally safe but it is important to observe one's safety such as taking necessary precautions to have a smooth journey. Familiarize yourself with high altitude sickness in case you intend on trekking or engaging in any adventurous activities .Stay hydrated ,acclimatize well and follow instructions given by local authorities or tour guides. Tourism In order to maintain sustainable tourism in Kullu, the environment and communities should be respected. Do not litter the area, minimize plastic use and respect the local ecosystem. Contribute positively to the region by supporting local businesses and engaging in sustainable practices. and Medical Facilities Kullu has limited medical facilities that handle minor health concerns. However, one can travel to bigger cities like Shimla or Chandigarh for critical cases. It is recommended that you have a basic first aid kit as well as medications. In some parts of Kullu, mobile connectivity can be unreliable especially if you are in remote areas. Be ready for a situation where communication could be difficult & inform others about possible network issues. Additionally carry offline maps and other important data with you. Final Thoughts Kullu is an ideal destination combining natural beauty with adventure and cultural these few things before your trip will help give you a great time on your trekking through Himalayas River rafting on Beas River or enjoying local cuisine; every traveler is assured of experiencing moments they can never forget while at Kullu.
