Parvatmala Pariyojana: Advancing Ropeway Infrastructure in India

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet approved two major ropeway projects in Uttarakhand under Parvatmala Pariyojana—Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km) and Sonprayag to Kedarnath (12.9 km)—to enhance pilgrimage accessibility, reduce travel time, and promote sustainable tourism.

Parvatmala Pariyojana: Advancing Ropeway Infrastructure in India

About Parvatmala Pariyojana:

  • Launched in Union Budget 2022-23, the National Ropeways Development Programme aims to enhance connectivity in hilly regions and congested urban areas.
  • Spearheaded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, it focuses on safe, cost-effective, and modern ropeway infrastructure.
  • Designed to provide first- and last-mile connectivity where traditional transport is impractical.

Key Developments and Projects:

  • The Union Cabinet recently approved two major ropeway projects in Uttarakhand:
    • Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km)
    • Sonprayag to Kedarnath (12.9 km)
  • These projects will significantly reduce travel time for pilgrims and tourists while maintaining environmental sustainability.
  • Over 200 projects have been identified under the scheme, with a total investment of ₹1.25 lakh crore.
  • 60% of the funding is provided by the Centre under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
  • The National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a subsidiary of NHAI, is responsible for implementation.

Impact and Future Prospects

  • Ropeway technology will enhance transport infrastructure in challenging terrains.
  • The initiative will promote sustainable tourism, boost economic growth, and reduce urban congestion.
  • By offering an efficient alternative to road transport, Parvatmala Pariyojana will play a crucial role in India’s development.

Parvatmala Pariyojana: Key Highlights

About the Programme

  •  Announced in the Union Budget 2022-23 as the National Ropeways Development Programme.
  • Aims to provide safe, economical, and efficient ropeway infrastructure for first- and last-mile connectivity.
  • Focuses on hilly regions and congested urban areas where traditional transport is not feasible.
  • Promotes tourism, logistics efficiency, and urban decongestion.
  • Over 200 projects identified with an investment of ₹1.25 lakh crore.

Implementation & Regulation

  • Mode: Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with 60% financial support from the Centre.
  • Implementing Agency: National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), under NHAI.
  • Regulated by: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), as per Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules 1961.

About Ropeways

  • Transport system connecting two locations across hills, valleys, or rivers.
  •  Operates via motor-powered trolleys running on a rope, carrying passengers or goods.
  • Used for mountainous transport, reducing travel time and environmental impact.