Bijli Mahadev project divides Himachal

In a move that has sparked passionate public debate, Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh recently took to Facebook, inviting citizens to share their views on a proposed ropeway from Pirdi (Kullu) to the sacred hilltop shrine of Bijli Mahadev. While the minister’s outreach aimed to encourage inclusive dialogue, it swiftly snowballed into a contentious storm—especially after reports confirmed that over 77 deodar trees had already been cut to clear the proposed route.

The minister’s post generated more than a thousand reactions and hundreds of comments within hours, revealing a sharply divided public. On one side are environmentalists, traditionalists and local villagers who believe the ropeway threatens the spiritual sanctity and fragile ecology of the site. On the other, a vocal section of residents and devotees support the move, arguing that it will greatly ease access for the elderly and differently abled.

“Ropeways should be installed at other unexplored scenic locations,” one commenter urged. “Bijli Mahadev’s purity must remain untouched.” Others warned that the influx of tourists could bring unchecked commercialisation, crowding and litter — damaging not only the deodar forests but also the cultural aura of the shrine.

Environmentalists have issued strong warnings also, pointing out that the Himalayan ecosystem is already teetering under pressure. They demand a thorough ecological and geological impact study before any construction begins, as well as transparent implementation of compensatory afforestation. Defining the site’s carrying capacity, they argue, is essential to prevent land subsidence, waste accumulation, and long-term habitat degradation.

However, supporters of the Rs 284-crore ropeway project—which is being executed by National Highways Logistics Management Limited—believe it could bring accessibility and economic opportunity without harming the environment. Some suggested limited daily permits and eco-friendly cable cars as compromise measures. They also cited successful examples from other hill shrines to argue that modernisation and conservation can co-exist.

Currently, visiting Bijli Mahadev involves a three-hour journey, including a two-hour uphill trek through pine-covered terrain above Chansari village. Alternative routes from Naggar and Kais are also poorly maintained.

With the proposed 2.4-km ropeway promising to cut travel to just seven minutes and transport up to 35,000 people per day, tensions are rising. Viral videos show locals denouncing the project, and whispers of a modern-day chipko movement are growing louder.

At stake is more than just a transport link—it’s a test of Himachal’s ability to balance progress with preservation and spirituality with sustainability.

Himachal Tribune