Kedarnath ropeway project by Adani Group will reduce the pilgrimage trek from 8–9 hours to just 36 minutes, boosting tourism and improving accessibility.
Adani to Build Kedarnath Ropeway, Reducing Trek to 36 Minutes
The Adani Group has announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art ropeway connecting Sonprayag to Kedarnath, aiming to significantly reduce the arduous 8–9 hour trek to just 36 minutes. This ambitious ₹4,081 crore project is set to transform the pilgrimage experience to one of India’s most revered shrines.
Project Overview
The proposed 12.9 km ropeway will employ advanced Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology, capable of carrying 1,800 passengers per hour in each direction. Each gondola will accommodate 35 passengers, facilitating the transportation of up to 18,000 pilgrims daily. The project is expected to be completed within six years and is being developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with the National Highways Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML). Adani Enterprises Ltd. (AEL) will oversee the construction through its Roads, Metro, Rail & Water (RMRW) division.
Why This News Is Important
Enhancing Pilgrimage Accessibility
The ropeway will provide a safer and more accessible means for devotees to reach Kedarnath, especially benefiting the elderly, differently-abled individuals, and those with limited physical endurance.
Boosting Tourism and Local Economy
By facilitating easier access to Kedarnath, the project is expected to increase tourist influx, thereby stimulating the local economy and creating employment opportunities in the region.
Advancing Infrastructure Development
This initiative aligns with India’s broader infrastructure development goals, showcasing the adoption of modern technology in enhancing connectivity in challenging terrains.
Historical Context
The Kedarnath pilgrimage has traditionally involved a challenging 18 km trek from Gaurikund, taking approximately 8–9 hours. Recognizing the need to improve accessibility, the government launched the National Ropeways Development Programme, known as Parvatmala Pariyojana, to develop ropeway systems in hilly regions. The Sonprayag–Kedarnath ropeway project is a significant part of this initiative, aiming to modernize pilgrimage routes and promote sustainable tourism.
Key Takeaways from “Adani to Build Kedarnath Ropeway, Reducing Trek to 36 Minutes”
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Adani Group is constructing a 12.9 km ropeway from Sonprayag to Kedarnath. |
| 2 | The project is valued at ₹4,081 crore and is expected to be completed in six years. |
| 3 | The ropeway will reduce the 8–9 hour trek to just 36 minutes. |
| 4 | It will have a capacity to transport 1,800 passengers per hour in each direction. |
| 5 | The project is developed under a Public-Private Partnership with NHLML. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Kedarnath ropeway project?
The Kedarnath ropeway is a 12.9 km ropeway connecting Sonprayag to Kedarnath, aimed at reducing the traditional 8–9 hour trek to just 36 minutes.
2. Who is building the Kedarnath ropeway?
The project is being constructed by the Adani Group under its Roads, Metro, Rail & Water (RMRW) division.
3. What is the cost of the Kedarnath ropeway project?
The total project cost is ₹4,081 crore.
4. How many passengers can the ropeway carry?
Each gondola can accommodate 35 passengers, with a total capacity of 1,800 passengers per hour in each direction, facilitating up to 18,000 pilgrims daily.
5. Under which model is the Kedarnath ropeway being developed?
The ropeway is developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the National Highways & Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML).
6. How will the ropeway benefit pilgrims?
It provides a safer, faster, and more accessible mode of travel, especially for elderly, differently-abled individuals, and those unable to undertake the long trek.
7. What technology will be used in the ropeway?
The ropeway will use Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology.
8. How does this project support tourism?
By making Kedarnath more accessible, it will boost tourism, local economy, and employment in Uttarakhand.
Some Important Current Affairs Links
