Kashi Ropeway Project Nears Completion

The Kashi Ropeway Project in Varanasi is nearing completion, poised to become India’s first urban public transport ropeway. This innovative transit solution aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance connectivity in the city’s densely populated areas.

🚠 Project Overview

Initiated under the National Ropeways Development Programme, ‘Parvatmala Pariyojana’, the Kashi Ropeway is a ₹807 crore venture designed to span 3.75 kilometers, connecting Varanasi Cantonment Railway Station to Godowlia Chowk. The route includes five stations: Cantt, Vidyapeeth, Rath Yatra, Girja Ghar, and Godowlia. Once operational, the ropeway will significantly reduce travel time between these points from 45 minutes to approximately 16 minutes.

🏗️ Construction Progress

As of early 2025, the project has achieved substantial milestones:

• Stations: Three of the five stations—Cantt, Vidyapeeth, and Rath Yatra—are completed, with equipment installation and facade work finalized.

• Infrastructure: Approximately 74% of the overall construction is complete, including the installation of 30 towers ranging from 10 to 55 meters in height. The Times of India

• Trial Runs: Trial operations commenced in March 2025, with a single gondola being tested on the nearly 3 km stretch between Cantt and Rath Yatra. Full-scale operations are anticipated to begin in August 2025.

🚡 Technical Specifications

• Gondolas: The system will operate 153 gondolas, each with a capacity of 10 passengers, running at intervals of 1.5 to 2 minutes.

• Capacity: Designed to handle up to 96,000 passengers daily, facilitating efficient movement across the city.

• Operating Hours: The ropeway will function 16 hours a day, ensuring accessibility for both residents and tourists.

🌆 Urban Impact

The Kashi Ropeway is expected to transform urban mobility in Varanasi by:Varanasi Guru

• Reducing Congestion: Providing an alternative to road transport, thereby decreasing traffic in crowded areas.

• Enhancing Accessibility: Improving access to significant cultural and religious sites, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

• Promoting Tourism: Offering a unique aerial perspective of the city, potentially boosting tourism.

📅 Anticipated Launch

The Kashi Ropeway is slated for full operational launch in August 2025, following the completion of trial runs and final safety assessments.