India is set to revolutionize transportation in hilly regions with the Parvatmala Project, an ambitious initiative aimed at developing modern ropeway connectivity across the country. The project, introduced in the Union Budget 2022, focuses on providing a safe, eco-friendly, and efficient transport alternative in mountainous terrains.
A Vision for the Future
During the announcement of the scheme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted its importance:
“For the first time in the country, the 'Parvatmala scheme' is being started for areas such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu-Kashmir, and the North-East. This scheme will create a modern system of transportation and connectivity on the mountains. It will also strengthen the border villages of our country, which need to be vibrant, and which is also necessary for the security of the country.”
What is the Parvatmala Project?
The Parvatmala Pariyojana (National Ropeway Development Programme) is a government-backed initiative to build over 250 ropeway projects covering 1,200 km within five years. The project is being implemented under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, ensuring modern infrastructure and private sector efficiency.
Why is the Parvatmala Project Important?
✅ Efficient & Cost-Effective Travel
Hilly terrains make traditional road and rail transport challenging. Ropeways offer aerial connectivity, reducing travel time and costs.
✅ Eco-Friendly Solution
Unlike road transport, ropeways produce minimal pollution and require significantly less land, making them a sustainable alternative.
✅ Boost to Tourism & Economy
Many pilgrimage sites and tourist destinations in India are in difficult-to-reach areas. The ropeway system will improve accessibility, promoting tourism and local businesses.
Major Ropeway Projects Under the Parvatmala Scheme 🚠
| Project Name | Distance | Technology Used | Travel Time Reduction | Capacity (Passengers per Hour) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath Ropeway | 12.9 km | 3S Gondola | 8-9 hours → 36 minutes | 1,800 |
| Hemkund Sahib Ropeway | 12.4 km | Monocable Detachable Gondola (MDG) | Covers 21 km of tough terrain | 1,100 |
| Varanasi Urban Ropeway | 3.85 km | Urban Ropeway System | Reduces road congestion | – |
| Gaurikund-Kedarnath Ropeway | 9.7 km | Ropeway Gondola | 7-9 hours → 28 minutes | – |
Upcoming & Awarded Ropeway Projects 🚀
✅ Awarded Projects (4.93 km length)
- Projects already sanctioned and in development.
✅ Preferred Bidders Identified (3.25 km length)
- Bidding process completed, and contractors selected.
✅ Bids Invited for 7 Major Ropeways (Total 53.28 km) 📢
| Project Name | State |
|---|---|
| Bijli Mahadev | Himachal Pradesh |
| Dhosi Hill | Haryana |
| Mahakaleshwar Temple | Madhya Pradesh |
| Sangam Prayagraj | Uttar Pradesh |
| Shankaracharya Temple | Jammu & Kashmir |
| Sonprayag – Kedarnath | Uttarakhand |
| Govindghat – Hemkund Sahib | Uttarakhand |
| Kamakhya Temple | Assam |
| Tawang Monastery – P T Tso Lake | Arunachal Pradesh |
| Kathgodam – Hanuman Garhi Temple | Uttarakhand |
| Ramtek Gad Temple | Maharashtra |
| Brahmagiri-Anjaneri | Maharashtra |
Key Benefits of the Ropeway Network
✔ Faster & Safer Travel 🚀 – Direct routes, bypassing rough terrains.
✔ Less Land Acquisition 🌍 – Requires minimal infrastructure on the ground.
✔ Tourism Growth 🏔 – Easier access to religious and adventure destinations.
✔ Make in India Initiative 🇮🇳 – 50% indigenous components mandatory.
Final Thoughts
The Parvatmala Project is a game-changer for India’s transport sector, bringing modern ropeway connectivity to hilly and congested urban areas. With faster travel, enhanced tourism, and a reduced carbon footprint, this initiative marks a significant step toward sustainable infrastructure development.
🚠 The future of travel in India is up in the air—literally!
Would you love to travel via a ropeway? Share your thoughts below! 👇✨
