Kashi Ropeway's First Cable Car Undergoes Alignment Test.

The first gondola and a maintenance vehicle on the Kashi Ropeway underwent an alignment test recently, marking a significant step towards the project’s completion. The test, which took place between Rathyatra and Vidyapeeth stations, indicates that the much-anticipated trial run of the ropeway service could be launched in three months.

The National Highway Logistic Management Limited (NHLML), which is overseeing the project, conducted the test at an elevation of 45 meters above the road level. The gondola was moved at intermittent speeds of up to two meters per second over a distance of 1.3 kilometers for nearly two hours. Project Director Puja Mishra explained that this was a crucial alignment test in ropeway engineering, a key milestone for the development.

The alignment test follows the resolution of land acquisition issues, particularly for the final tower and the Godowlia station. Mishra confirmed that the land for these areas has been handed over by the Varanasi Development Authority. However, civil works will begin next month due to the Maha Kumbh crowd. As of now, 74% of the project has been completed, with plans to start the trial run soon between Cantt Railway Station, Vidyapeeth, and Rathyatra stations.

The Kashi Ropeway is the first of its kind to be introduced as public transport in India. The project, valued at Rs 807 crore, was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2023, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ensuring its swift progress. Designed to ease the congestion of Varanasi, the ropeway will offer an alternative transportation route for over one lakh passengers, particularly pilgrims and tourists.

The ropeway will cover the 16-minute journey from Godowlia to Cantt Railway Station, with approximately 150 gondolas running at a height of 45-50 meters. Each 10-seater gondola will be equipped with special features for comfort, including accessibility for disabled passengers, ventilated interiors, and reflective windows to reduce solar glare and overheating.

Once completed, the Kashi Ropeway will be the country's first urban transport ropeway, following similar systems in Mexico and Bolivia. The service aims to reduce traffic congestion and offer a seamless travel experience to the city’s growing number of visitors.

ET