New Delhi, March 7: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved two major ropeway projects in Uttarakhand to improve accessibility and boost tourism.
The Govindghat-Hemkund Sahib Ji ropeway, spanning 12.4 km, will be constructed at a cost of Rs 2,730.13 crore. At present, pilgrims undertake a 21-km uphill trek using ponies, palanquins, or on foot. The project will introduce a monocable detachable gondola (MDG) for the Govindghat-Ghangaria stretch (10.55 km) and a tricable detachable gondola (3S) for Ghangaria-Hemkund Sahib Ji (1.85 km). With a capacity of 1,100 passengers per hour per direction, it can serve up to 11,000 visitors daily. The initiative is expected to generate employment in construction, tourism, and hospitality sectors.
The Cabinet also approved the Kedarnath ropeway project, covering 12.9 km with an outlay of Rs 4,081 crore. It will feature 3S technology and accommodate 18,000 passengers daily. The ropeway will provide all-weather connectivity between Sonprayag and Kedarnath, significantly reducing the 16-km trek from Gaurikund. Kedarnath, situated at 3,583 meters, attracts 20 lakh pilgrims annually.
These projects aim to enhance pilgrim convenience while boosting the regional economy and tourism.
