Cabinet Gives Green Flag To The Kedarnath Ropeway Project

Imagine cutting down an exhausting 9-hour trek to just 36 minutes! Sounds magical, right? Well, that’s exactly what’s happening with the newly approved Kedarnath ropeway project. This massive infrastructure development is all set to make religious tourism easier, safer, and faster for lakhs of pilgrims visiting Kedarnath every year.

Kedarnath Ropeway Key Highlights

• Project Cost – ₹4,081.28 crore
• Length – 12.9 km, connecting Sonprayag to Kedarnath
• Technology – Advanced Tri-Cable Detachable Gondola (3S)
• Capacity – 3,600 people per hour in both directions
• Travel Time – Cut down from 8-9 hours to just 36 minutes!
• Altitude – 3,583 meters above sea level

This ambitious project is part of a broader plan to enhance religious tourism under the Parvatmala Pariyojana, a national ropeway development program.

Why is This a Game Changer?

For years, devotees had to brave long and difficult treks, ride mules, or take helicopters (which are expensive and weather-dependent) to reach Kedarnath. With this ropeway, pilgrims—especially the elderly and differently-abled—can now have a smooth, hassle-free journey.

Hemkund Sahib Ropeway Also Gets a Nod

Along with the Kedarnath ropeway, another 12.4 km ropeway has been approved to connect Govindghat with Hemkund Sahib. This project, worth ₹2,730.13 crore, will make the pilgrimage to this revered Sikh shrine much easier. Currently, devotees face a 12-hour steep trek, but with this ropeway, the journey will take just 45 minutes.

Fast Facts About Hemkund Sahib Ropeway

• Cost – ₹2,730.13 crore
• Length – 12.4 km (Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib)
• Technology – Monocable Detachable Gondola (MDG) & 3S system
• Capacity – 11,000 passengers daily
• Altitude – 15,000 ft (one of the highest ropeways in the world)
• Impact – Will also improve access to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

What’s in It for Everyone?

These ropeways are not just about convenience; they come with several benefits:

• Boost to Tourism – The Char Dham Yatra will become more accessible, attracting more visitors.
• Job Creation – Thousands of jobs will be generated during construction and operation.
• Eco-Friendly Travel – The ropeways will reduce dependence on mules and helicopters, cutting down carbon emissions and environmental damage.

A New Era of Pilgrimage Tourism

The Sonprayag-Kedarnath and Govindghat-Hemkund Sahib ropeway projects are expected to transform religious travel in India. This is a big win for pilgrims, the tourism industry, and the local economy. Now, more people can embark on their spiritual journey with comfort and ease, making pilgrimage experiences truly divine!