4081 Crore Ropeway Project for Kedarnath; The trek to become easy

New Delhi, March 5, 2025 — In a major boost to pilgrimage infrastructure and tourism in Uttarakhand, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹4,081.28 crore ropeway project linking Sonprayag to Kedarnath under the National Ropeways Development Programme—Parvatmala Pariyojana.

Spanning 12.9 kilometres, the new ropeway will use advanced Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology to transport up to 1,800 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD), equating to about 18,000 travellers daily. It is slated to reduce the arduous 8–9 hour uphill trek from Gaurikund/Sonprayag to Kedarnath to just 36 minutes, offering devotees—including the elderly and differently-abled—a more accessible and comfortable travel option.

Developed under a public-private partnership using the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model, the project also promises a reliable and environmentally friendly mode of transport, even in challenging weather conditions.

Officials expect significant employment opportunities during the construction and operation phases, as well as a positive spillover into allied sectors such as hospitality, travel, and food & beverage—further enhancing the socio-economic landscape of the region.

The decision has drawn acclaim from state authorities and local communities, who believe it marks a pivotal step forward for improved last-mile connectivity in the Himalayan terrain. Moreover, experts note that the ropeway aligns with India’s broader infrastructure vision of sustainable tourism development and heritage site accessibility.

As Kedarnath continues to draw around two million pilgrims annually during its six-to-seven-month pilgrimage season, this project could dramatically transform the spiritual journey—not only in terms of convenience but also in enhancing overall pilgrimage safety and experience.