Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji Ropeway Project: A Major Connectivity Boost

The Government of India has approved the construction of a 12.4 km ropeway from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji in Uttarakhand under the National Ropeways Development Programme – Parvatmala Pariyojana. This significant project aims to provide all-weather, last-mile connectivity to one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India while boosting tourism and local employment.

Key Highlights

• Approval & Cost: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the project with an estimated cost of ₹2,730.13 crore.
• Development Model: To be developed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) mode in a public-private partnership (PPP).
• Current Challenge: The journey to Hemkund Sahib Ji involves a 21 km steep uphill trek, currently covered on foot, ponies, or palanquins.

Technology Used

• Monocable Detachable Gondola (MDG): Govindghat to Ghangaria (10.55 km).
• Tricable Detachable Gondola (3S): Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Ji (1.85 km).
• Capacity: Designed to transport 1,100 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD), facilitating 11,000 passengers per day.

Benefits of the Ropeway

• Improved Accessibility: Reduces travel time and eases the pilgrimage for elderly and disabled visitors.
• Boost to Tourism: Enhances access to Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Economic Growth: Creates employment in construction, operations, hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors.
• Environmental Sustainability: Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing reliance on ponies and foot traffic.

About Hemkund Sahib Ji

• A revered Sikh pilgrimage site at 15,000 ft in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand.
• The Gurudwara remains open for about 5 months (May to September) and attracts 1.5 to 2 lakh pilgrims annually.
• The trek also serves as the gateway to Valley of Flowers National Park, known for its rich biodiversity.