The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan, where six priority routes were identified from nearly 50 proposed ropeway projects. Among these, work orders have already been issued for the Sonprayag–Kedarnath and Govindghat–Hemkund Sahib ropeways, both of which attract lakhs of pilgrims every year.
The Sonprayag–Kedarnath ropeway, spanning approximately 12.9 km, and the Govindghat–Hemkund Sahib ropeway, around 12.4 km long, have been approved under the National Ropeways Development Programme (Parvatmala Pariyojana). Once operational, these ropeways are expected to significantly reduce trekking time, making pilgrimages easier for senior citizens, children, and people with physical limitations.
Apart from improving pilgrimage access, the ropeway projects are expected to boost tourism, generate employment, and support local economies in remote hill regions. With the Char Dham circuit alone receiving millions of visitors annually, improved connectivity is seen as a game-changer for Uttarakhand’s tourism sector.
Other proposed ropeways under fast-track consideration include routes such as Kathgodam–Hanumangarhi, Joshimath–Auli, and Kanakchauri–Kartik Swami, with detailed project reports and approvals progressing steadily.
Officials stated that environmental safeguards and sustainable construction practices will remain a priority. Once completed, these ropeway projects are expected to redefine mountain travel and strengthen Uttarakhand’s position as a leading spiritual and eco-tourism destination.
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