Cabinet Approves Two Ropeway Projects in Uttarakhand

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet approved two ropeway projects under Parvatmala Pariyojana—Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km) and Sonprayag to Kedarnath (12.9 km)—at a cost of ₹6,811 crore, aiming to improve accessibility and boost religious tourism.

Cabinet Approves Two Ropeway Projects in Uttarakhand

Highlights of the Project :

  • The Union Cabinet has approved two major ropeway projects under the Parvatmala Pariyojana:
    • Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km)
    • Sonprayag to Kedarnath (12.9 km)
  • The total cost of both projects is ₹6,811 crore under the PPP model (DBFOT mode).
  • These ropeways will reduce trekking distances:
    • Hemkund Sahib Ji: Currently a 21-km trek from Govindghat.
    • Kedarnath Temple: Currently a 16-km trek from Gaurikund.

Technology & Features

  • Govindghat-Hemkund Sahib Ji Ropeway
    • Monocable Detachable Gondola from Govindghat to Ghangaria (10.55 km).
    • Tricable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Ji (1.85 km).
    • Capacity: 1,100 passengers per hour, 11,000 passengers per day.
  • Sonprayag-Kedarnath Ropeway
    • Fully developed with Tricable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology.
    • Capacity: 1,800 passengers per hour, 18,000 passengers per day.
  • Tri-cable systems offer higher capacity, longer spans, and better stability than monocable

Impact & Benefits

  • Boosts religious tourism:
    • Hemkund Sahib Ji (15,000 ft) attracts 5-2 lakh pilgrims annually.
    • Kedarnath Temple (11,968 ft) sees 20 lakh visitors per year.
  • Economic growth: Increased accessibility will benefit local businesses and tourism.
  • Parvatmala Pariyojana Expansion:
    • Launched in Union Budget 2022-23, aims to develop 1,200 km of ropeways under the PPP model.

About Hemkund Sahib Ji :

  • Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, at 4,632 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas.
  • Connectivity: Currently a 21-km trek from Govindghat, soon to have ropeway access.
  • Features:
  • One of Sikhism’s holiest shrines, dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
  • Gateway to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

About Parvatmala Pariyojana:

  • What: National Ropeways Development Programme to improve hilly area connectivity.
  • Launch: Announced in Union Budget 2022-23 by MoRTH.
  • Implementation: By MoRTH under NHLML.
  • Aim:
  • Reduce travel time and enhance connectivity in difficult terrains.
  • Promote eco-friendly, cost-effective transport.
  • Boost tourism and local economy.

Key Features

  • 200+ Ropeway Projects: ₹1.25 lakh crore budget over five years.
  • PPP Model: Encourages private sector participation.
  • Monocable & Tricable Gondola: High capacity, efficient & safe.
  • HAM Support: 60% funding by the government.
  • Make in India: Focus on indigenous manufacturing.
  • Multi-Utility Use: Tourism, urban transport, logistics in remote areas.