Uttarakhand, NHLML Ink Rs 68 Bn Deal for Two Mega Ropeway Projects

09 Sep 2025 CW Team

In a major step to enhance pilgrimage and tourism infrastructure, the Uttarakhand Tourism Department and National Highways Logistics Management (NHLML), a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, have signed an agreement to develop two ropeway projects worth Rs 68 billion.

Sonprayag–Kedarnath in Just 36 Minutes

The projects include a 12.9 km ropeway from Sonprayag to Kedarnath, estimated at Rs 41 billion, and a 12.4 km route from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib, costing around Rs 27 billion. The Sonprayag–Kedarnath ropeway will reduce travel time from the current 8–9 hours to just 36 minutes, providing a safer and faster alternative for pilgrims who otherwise rely on trekking, ponies, palanquins, or helicopters.

Boost to Tourism and Connectivity

These ropeways are expected to significantly promote tourism and support the local economy, while also ensuring year-round connectivity for devotees and travellers. The agreement signing was attended by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta, and State Minister for Tourism, Religious Affairs, and Culture Satpal Maharaj.

Part of the Parvatmala Project

Both ropeway projects form part of the Union Government’s Parvatmala initiative, approved by the Cabinet earlier this year under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. The 12.4 km Hemkund Sahib ropeway will link Govindghat with the high-altitude Gurudwara situated at 15,000 feet in Chamoli district, easing access for devotees.

Officials said the projects will not only provide convenience to pilgrims but also strengthen Uttarakhand’s position as a key spiritual and adventure tourism hub.

News source: India TV

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