Sonprayag to Kedarnath Ropeway Project: Transforming Pilgrimage Connectivity

The Government of India has approved the construction of a 12.9 km ropeway from Sonprayag to Kedarnath under the National Ropeways Development Programme – Parvatmala Pariyojana. This initiative aims to provide all-weather, last-mile connectivity to the revered Kedarnath Temple, significantly reducing travel time while boosting tourism and employment in the region.

Key Highlights

  • Approval & Cost: Sanctioned by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) with an estimated ₹4,081.28 crore investment.
  • Development Mode: Public-Private Partnership (PPP) under Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) mode.
  • Technology Used: Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S), an advanced ropeway system.
  • Passenger Capacity: Designed to transport 1,800 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD), facilitating 18,000 passengers per day.
  • Time Reduction: Cuts travel time from 8-9 hours to just 36 minutes.

Benefits of the Ropeway

  • Improved Accessibility: Easier and safer alternative to the 16-km uphill trek from Gaurikund.
  • Pilgrim Convenience: Provides comfortable, fast, and eco-friendly travel to Kedarnath.
  • Tourism Boost: Enhances access to Kedarnath Dham, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
  • Economic Growth: Generates employment in construction, operations, hospitality, and tourism.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Reduces dependence on ponies, palanquins, and helicopters, lowering carbon footprint.

About Kedarnath Temple

  • One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, situated at 3,583 meters (11,968 ft) in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand.
  • Temple remains open for 6-7 months (April-May to October-November).
  • Attracts 20 lakh pilgrims annually during the season.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Sonprayag to Kedarnath Ropeway Project: Transforming Pilgrimage Connectivity
Approval By Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
Development Programme National Ropeways Development Programme – Parvatmala Pariyojana
Length of Ropeway 12.9 km
Total Cost ₹4,081.28 crore
Implementation Mode Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT)
Technology Used Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S)
Passenger Capacity 1,800 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD)
Daily Capacity 18,000 passengers per day
Travel Time Reduction From 8-9 hours to just 36 minutes
Employment Opportunities During construction, operations, and allied industries like tourism, hospitality, and F&B
Environmental Impact Reduces reliance on ponies, palanquins, and helicopters
Significance Enhances last-mile connectivity, boosts tourism, and fosters economic growth
Kedarnath Temple Elevation 3,583 m (11,968 ft)
Pilgrimage Season 6-7 months (April-May to October-November)
Annual Pilgrims 20 lakh visitors
Shivam

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