In a significant infrastructure boost for Uttarakhand, the Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Kedarnath ropeway project and the Hemkund Sahib ropeway project.
These projects aim to enhance pilgrimage accessibility, improve last-mile connectivity, and promote socio-economic development in the hilly terrain of Uttarakhand.
Kedarnath ropeway project: Faster and safer pilgrimage
The Kedarnath ropeway project, spanning 12.9 km, will significantly reduce travel time for pilgrims. Currently, devotees undertake a strenuous 16-km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, often relying on ponies, palanquins, or helicopters. With an estimated budget of Rs 4,081 crore, the ropeway will offer a faster, safer, and more eco-friendly mode of transport, cutting travel time from 8–9 hours to just 36 minutes.
The ropeway will connect Sonprayag to Kedarnath, ensuring all-weather accessibility and easing the journey for thousands of pilgrims visiting the revered shrine.
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Hemkund Sahib ropeway project: Improved Access for Devotees
Similarly, the Hemkund Sahib ropeway project, with a financial outlay of approximately ₹2,730 crore, will enhance connectivity to the revered Sikh pilgrimage site.
Hemkund Sahib, situated at an altitude of over 4,600 meters, is a major religious destination, attracting devotees from across the country. The ropeway will provide a faster and more comfortable alternative to the challenging trek, ensuring easier access for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims.
Boost to Uttarakhand’s economy and tourism
The approval of these ropeway projects marks a crucial step in Uttarakhand news, highlighting the government's commitment to improving infrastructure in the region. The projects are expected to boost tourism, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall economic development of the state.
Additionally, they align with the government’s vision of promoting sustainable and environment-friendly transportation in ecologically sensitive areas.
With these developments, the Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib ropeway projects are set to revolutionise pilgrimage travel, making religious tourism in Uttarakhand more accessible, efficient, and comfortable for devotees.
Also Read: Bridge linking Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib collapses in land
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