Dehradun: The construction work for the much-awaited ropeway of Yamunotri Dham has now started following the “Bhumi Pujan” performed recently by the authorities concerned of the company, selected by the state government for this project.
In February 2023, the state government cleared the proposal for the construction of the 3.38 km long ropeway to enhance connectivity to Yamunotri Dham.
The project is expected to be completed by November 2027
Subsequently, an MoU was signed between a private company and the state government. The estimated cost of the project stands at around Rs 167 crores. The project is expected to be completed by November 2027. The Yamunotri Dham is located at the height of 10804 feet from the sea level in the border district of Uttar Kashi. Construction work is assigned to a private company on PPP mode.
After the competition of the project, the ropeway will reduce travel time
Once completed, the ropeway is set to reduce the travel time for reaching the Yamunotri Dham from 2.3 hours to 15-20 minutes. Currently, the journey from Kharsali to Yamunotri Dham is covered by a 5.5 km trek which is challenging for many pilgrims. During the rainy season, there is always a danger of debris and stones falling on this route.
The ropeway will have a capacity to accommodate approximately 500 people per hour
As per the plan, the lower terminal will be built at Kharsali while the site for constructing the upper terminal has been identified near the police outpost in Yamunotri Dham. The ropeway is designed to operate at a speed of six meters per second. The ropeway will have the capacity to accommodate approximately 500 people from one side per hour. A total of ten towers will be installed on the route of the proposed ropeway from Kharsali to Yamunotri Dham.
A parking will be also constructed
In the first phase of the project, the lower terminal at Kharsali is being built first. A vehicle parking, with a capacity of 250 cars, 40 traveller vans and 30 bikes, will also be constructed near the lower terminal. The company, assigned for the project, has informed the Uttarkashi district administration regarding the beginning of the construction works.
