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Varanasi is set to get India’s first urban ropeway, cutting travel time and easing city congestion.
The estimated cost of the Varanasi urban ropeway is Rs 807 crore. (Photo Credit: X)
Varanasi is set to become the first Indian city to have an urban public transport ropeway, offering a modern solution to city travel. The project, reportedly costing around Rs 807 crore, aims to reduce traffic congestion and make commuting easier for residents and tourists alike.
The ropeway will cover a 3.75 km stretch, linking Banaras Cantt Railway Station with Godowlia Chowk. Once operational, it is expected to cut travel time from nearly 45-50 minutes by road to just 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, authorities have not finalised fares yet but have assured commuters that the pricing will be affordable.
Trial runs have already started to ensure smooth operations
The first trial run of the ropeway began in March this year, with a single gondola tested on the nearly 3-km stretch between Cantt and Rathyatra, according to Hindustan Times.
More gondolas were gradually added to the trial phase to check the system’s efficiency, reports add.
In addition, Project Director Pooja Mishra of National Highway Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML) confirmed that the trial runs lasted for over three months and helped fine-tune the operations, as per Hindustan Times.
The ropeway will improve connectivity and offer modern facilities for passengers
Three stations, Cantt, Vidyapeeth, and Rathyatra, have reportedly already been built, with all major equipment installed. These stations will feature automatic stairs, lifts, wheelchair ramps, restrooms, parking, and areas for food, beverages, and shopping.
Around 150 trolley cars will operate at a height of 45-50 metres, with each gondola able to carry up to 10 passengers. Gondolas will arrive at intervals of 1.5 to 2 minutes, providing a continuous flow of transport, reports state. The system is designed to run for 16 hours daily, ensuring convenience for daily commuters.
The project aims to provide a faster, eco-friendly alternative to road travel
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the ropeway in March 2023. Once fully functional, the ropeway is expected to offer a faster, environmentally friendly way to travel across the busy city, significantly reducing road congestion.
Officials say the project will not only benefit daily commuters but also make life easier for tourists visiting Varanasi, one of India’s busiest cultural and religious hubs.
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
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