The North News
Chandigarh, April 4
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday pledged renewed efforts to revive a long-stalled ropeway project connecting the revered pilgrimage sites of Sri Anandpur Sahib in Punjab and Sri Naina Devi ji in Himachal Pradesh, aiming to offer smoother access for lakhs of devotees.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the Shaktipeeth Sri Naina Devi temple during the Navratras festival, Mann announced his intention to collaborate with the Himachal Pradesh government to establish a joint task force to expedite the project. “Despite repeated promises by previous regimes, this vital infrastructure was never realised,” he said, lamenting the neglect of the proposal over the years.
Mann said the ropeway, once completed, would significantly ease travel for pilgrims, especially given the difficult hilly terrain that separates the two historic shrines. “People come from all over the world to visit these sacred places, and this ropeway will offer them comfort, safety, and dignity in their spiritual journey,” he added.
The Chief Minister’s visit coincided with the ongoing Navratras, a nine-day festival celebrating the divine feminine. During his address, he extended greetings to the people of Punjab, calling the festival “a celebration of the triumph of good over evil.” He also used the occasion to reiterate his government’s resolve to combat drug abuse, referring to it as “a modern-day demon” plaguing the state.
Mann said he had come to seek the blessings of Maa Durga not only for personal strength but for the collective wellbeing of the people. “These are sacred days of reflection and prayer. I ask for strength to serve Punjab with dedication, beyond caste, creed, or religion,” he said.
He pledged that values of harmony, inclusivity, and brotherhood would remain central to his government’s mission. “This shrine is a fountainhead of inspiration and positive energy,” he said, thanking Mata Rani for the opportunity to serve and promising that the administration would continue to prioritise development and pro-people policies.
