BY : RATNESH RAI
The upcoming urban transport ropeway in Varanasi, Kashi, is set to be a transformative project, aimed at easing traffic congestion and providing an efficient mode of transportation for both residents and tourists. Here are the key details of the project:
Project Overview
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Cost: ₹807 crore
- Constructed by: Switzerland-based company Berthollet
- Operational Date: Expected by Dev Deepawali
Features of the Ropeway
- Stations: Starting at Varanasi Junction Cantt Railway Station and ending at Rath Yatra.
- Capacity: 3,000 passengers per hour in one direction, totaling 6,000 passengers per hour in both directions.
- Travel Time: Approximately 16 minutes from Cantt Railway Station to Godaulia.
- Height: Estimated 45 to 50 meters above ground.
- Trolleys: 150 trolley cars, each with a capacity of 10 passengers.
- Frequency: Gondolas available every 1.5 to 2 minutes.
- Operating Hours: 16 hours daily.
Current Progress
- Equipment: Imported from Switzerland.
- Installation: Stations and towers are being rapidly constructed.
- Anchor Bolts: Installed at Vidyapeeth station.
- Conveyors: Several acceleration and de-acceleration conveyors installed.
- Towers: Work in progress on 16 towers, with 2 already installed between Varanasi Junction Railway Station and Rath Yatra.
Significance
- Tourism: Facilitates travel for tourists during Dev Deepawali, a major festival.
- Traffic Relief: Alleviates the traffic burden in one of India’s most congested cities.
- Pollution-Free: Provides an eco-friendly transportation option.
The ropeway project in Varanasi is a significant infrastructure development, promising to improve urban mobility and enhance the city’s appeal as a tourist destination. With the trial run expected soon, the project is on track to meet its completion goal by Dev Deepawali.