India is poised to construct the world's longest ropeway, connecting Shimla and Parwanoo. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Himachal Pradesh government, will boast a total length of 40.73 kilometers. Upon completion, the ropeway is expected to transport approximately 2,000 people per hour.
Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh government is undertaking this significant initiative to boost tourism and alleviate traffic congestion. The planned ropeway, stretching from Shimla to Parwanoo, aims to address the traffic challenges posed by the influx of millions of domestic and international tourists annually. This project's primary goal is to facilitate smoother and more convenient movement for tourists.
Boosting Tourism
The high volume of tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh each year creates significant traffic congestion on the main highway leading to Shimla. The new ropeway will provide a more convenient and time-efficient travel option. Currently, the road journey from Parwanoo to Shimla takes 2 to 3 hours; the ropeway will drastically reduce travel time.
Ropeway Features and Estimated Cost
The project is estimated to cost approximately ₹5,600 crore (56 billion rupees) and take five years to complete. An electric ropeway will be utilized to minimize environmental impact. The route will feature 11 stations, with a capacity of 904 passengers per hour in each direction. Each ropeway cabin will accommodate 8-10 passengers.
Project Responsibility and Potential
The state government has entrusted the Ropeway and Rapid Transport System Development Corporation (RTDC) with the project. RTDC will be responsible not only for construction and operation but also for revenue generation through ticket sales and leasing of commercial spaces at the stations. The ropeway is expected to significantly boost Shimla's tourism and improve travel convenience for both locals and tourists.
