Trial run commences for first urban ropeway in Varanasi

Varanasi, India (Urban Transport News): Varanasi is set to introduce a new mode of transport with the trial run of India’s first urban ropeway, which began a few days ago. The ₹807 crore project aims to ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity, and provide a sustainable alternative to road transport for both residents and visitors, officials announced on Monday.

The trial run, which will continue for three months, is being closely monitored by Pooja Mishra, Project Director of the National Highway Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML). Currently, a single gondola is being tested on the 3-km stretch between Cantt and Rathyatra, with more gondolas expected to join the trial in the coming weeks. Full-scale operations are slated to begin in August.

Spanning a total distance of 3.75 km, the Varanasi ropeway will connect Banaras Cantt Railway Station to Godowlia Chowk, offering a significant reduction in travel time. The project is expected to cut down the current travel time of 45-50 minutes to just 15 minutes, making it a game-changer for daily commuters, according to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

Three stations—Cantt, Vidyapeeth, and Rathyatra—are already constructed, with all necessary equipment installed. The stations are equipped with modern amenities including automatic stairs, lifts, wheelchair ramps, restrooms, parking spaces, and provisions for food, beverages, and shopping.

The ropeway will feature around 150 trolley cars, each with a capacity of up to 10 passengers, operating at an estimated height of 45-50 meters. The gondolas will be available at intervals of 1.5 to 2 minutes, ensuring a seamless and continuous flow of transport for commuters. The ropeway is designed to operate for 16 hours daily.

While the fare structure is yet to be finalized, authorities have assured that it will remain affordable for the general public. The Varanasi ropeway promises to enhance urban mobility, reduce congestion, and provide a unique, eco-friendly transportation option for the city’s residents and tourists alike.