Jammu: Expressing concern over the noise
and air pollution caused by chopper sorties in Katra- the base
camp of Vaishno Devi shrine, a J-K Assembly Panel has
recommended relocation of the helipad from the holy town.
"There is an urgent need for relocation of the helipad
in order to minimise the daily sorties to prevent air and
noise pollution in Katra town," a report of Committee on
Environment said.
It further noted that the people of the town had
raised the issue of "uncontrolled" trips of helicopters
leading to problems of noise and air pollution.
Two helicopter companies carry out dozens of sorties
daily from Katra to Sanjichat and back ferrying hundreds of
pilgrims to the cave shrine.
Also, the panel said, there is a need for taking
preventive measures for creating healthy and hygienic
environment in the town which is thronged by over 80 lakh
pilgrims annually.
It further recommended the establishment of a sewerage
treatment plant at an appropriate place in Katra town.
People of the town have held several protests and made
representations to authorities demanding shifting of the
helipad.
PTI
