• The Kashi Ropeway is designed to be India’s first public transport ropeway.
• The project is estimated to cost 100 Million USD or approximately ₹807 crore.
• The ropeway will be 3.75 km long, with a total length of 3,660 meters as mentioned in the draft, and is designed to connect the Varanasi Cantonment railway station to the Godowlia Chowk station.
• The ropeway is planned to have a maximum capacity of 3,000 passengers per hour in each direction.
• It will feature approximately 150 panorama cabins, each designed to carry 10 passengers. These cabins are designed by Porsche Design Studio.
• The cabins will move along a route that includes 5 stations, and during their transit, they may hover up to 40 meters above the existing buildings of Varanasi.
• The estimated travel time between the two terminal stations (Varanasi Cantonment railway station to Godowlia Chowk) is expected to be around 16 minutes, significantly reducing current travel times, particularly during traffic congestion.
• The construction began in March 2022 and is expected to be completed by May 2025. Operation is expected to start at the same time.
• On 24 March 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation for the ropeway project.
• The construction is based on a hybrid annuity model, wherein 60% and 40% of the cost will be paid during the construction period and operation-maintenance period, respectively. After completion, the company will maintain the ropeway for 15 years.
• This ambitious project is expected to drastically reduce the travel time for both local residents and tourists between one of the busiest routes in Varanasi.
• The Ropeway project is a significant part of Varanasi’s infrastructure development, enhancing the ease of movement and access to significant landmarks and spiritual centers, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• It will be a boon to the country’s oldest living city and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, providing an innovative solution to decongest the city’s roads.
The stations for the Ropeway are planned to be culturally significant, reflecting the rich heritage of Varanasi. Each of the overhead stations will be designed based on themes inspired by Varanasi’s culture, art, and religion, making the transit system not just a means of travel but also a unique cultural experience for passengers.
These expanded details give a comprehensive view of the Kashi Ropeway project, highlighting its significance, technical features, construction timeline, expected impact, and unique cultural incorporation in its design and execution.
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