India Plans Ropeways at 18 Key Sites
In an effort to modernize travel infrastructure, the government has invited consultants to submit proposals for the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for these projects. These ropeways are expected to reduce travel times, alleviate congestion, and provide alternative routes to some of the country’s most visited religious and cultural destinations.
Among the largest of these initiatives is the Amarnath Shrine ropeway project, which will span an impressive 11.6 kilometers. This ropeway will offer pilgrims an alternative to the current options of walking or taking a helicopter, significantly reducing the time required to reach the sacred site.
Other key projects include a 2.62-kilometer ropeway to the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, which will eliminate the two-hour climb from Pamba, and a 3.21-kilometer ropeway for Parvathamalai Temple in Tamil Nadu, a site of major religious and cultural importance. Additionally, the government is working on a 1.6-kilometer ropeway from Sonamarg to Thajiwas Glacier in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Rajasthan city of Jaipur will also see a 6.45-kilometer ropeway linking the historic Amer Fort to Nahargarh Fort. Furthermore, a 3.21-kilometer ropeway will connect Mussoorie with the famous Kempty Falls, enhancing tourism in the area.
With these projects, the government aims to not only improve the pilgrimage experience but also promote tourism, contributing to the growth of the regional economies.