Union Cabinet Approves Kedarnath Ropeway Project, Travel Time to Shrink to 36 Minutes
New Delhi, 5th March 2025: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the ambitious Kedarnath ropeway project, marking a major step in improving connectivity to the revered pilgrimage site. The project, spanning 12.9 km from Sonprayag to Kedarnath, will be developed under a public-private partnership at an estimated cost of ₹4,081 crore.
The ropeway will feature cutting-edge Tri-Cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey for pilgrims. Designed to accommodate high traffic, the system will have the capacity to transport 1,800 passengers per hour in one direction and 18,000 people daily.
Currently, the trek to Kedarnath Dham takes 8 to 9 hours on foot. However, with the completion of this project, the journey will be reduced to just 36 minutes, significantly easing travel for devotees, especially the elderly and differently-abled pilgrims.
The Kedarnath ropeway is expected to boost tourism, enhance pilgrimage accessibility, and contribute to the local economy.
