Uttarakhand Ropeway Projects

March 6, 2025

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the construction of ropeways from Sonprayag to Kedarnath and from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji. These projects aim to provide efficient, eco-friendly transportation for thousands of pilgrims each year.

Kedarnath Ropeway

The Kedarnath ropeway spans 12.9 km and is set to be developed using the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model.
The total investment for this project is Rs. 4,081.28 crore.
It will utilise Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology, designed to transport 1,800 passengers per hour in each direction.
This translates to a daily capacity of 18,000 passengers.
The ropeway will reduce travel time from 8-9 hours to approximately 36 minutes.

Impact on Pilgrimage

Kedarnath is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, attracting around 20 lakh pilgrims annually. The ropeway will enhance the pilgrimage experience by providing a comfortable and reliable mode of transport. It will also ensure all-weather connectivity between Sonprayag and Kedarnath, which is currently accessible only by foot, ponies, or helicopters.

Hemkund Sahib Ji Ropeway

The second project connects Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji, covering 12.4 km with a total cost of Rs. 2,730.13 crore. This ropeway will feature a Monocable Detachable Gondola (MDG) for the first segment and a Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) for the final stretch. It is designed to carry 1,100 passengers per hour, with a daily capacity of 11,000.

Significance for Tourism

Hemkund Sahib Ji is an important pilgrimage site located at an elevation of 15,000 ft. The Gurudwara is open for about five months each year and attracts 1.5 to 2 lakh visitors. The new ropeway will not only ease access for pilgrims but also promote tourism in the nearby Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Economic Benefits

Both projects are expected to generate substantial employment opportunities during construction and operation. They will also positively impact related sectors such as hospitality, travel, and food services. This development aligns with the goal of encouraging balanced socio-economic growth in hilly regions of Uttarakhand.

Environmental Considerations

The ropeways are designed to be environment-friendly, reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional modes of travel. This initiative reflects a commitment to sustainable tourism practices in the region.

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