Jammu: Amarnath Yatra is set to become more accessible with the development of a new ropeway project. Under the Parvat Mala project, which aims to improve transportation infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, 18 ropeway projects have been approved.
Among these projects, the pre-feasibility reports for three projects, including the Baltal to Amarnath cave ropeway, have already been prepared.
Baltal-Amarnath cave ropeway will be 9-km long
The proposed Baltal-Amarnath cave ropeway will span approximately 9 kilometres. This new ropeway is expected to significantly reduce travel time from the current 14-kilometre walking route, which takes about 10 hours, to just 40 minutes, as reported by Jagran.
This project is anticipated to make the pilgrimage more convenient for devotees.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary takes stock
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Friday reviewed the progress of the Parvatmala project.
During a meeting with the National Highway Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), Dulloo emphasised the need to expedite the process of finalising technically feasible projects. He also stressed the importance of improving coordination between various departments to resolve issues related to clearances and utility shifting.
The Chief Secretary’s review included discussions on several other ropeway projects planned for various tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. These include the Makhdoom Sahib-Hariparbat and Bhaderwah-Seoj Dhar ropeways. Additionally, consultations are underway for projects connecting Nashri Tunnel-Sanasar, Shankaracharya, and Sonamarg-Thajiwas.
The meeting also addressed the need to accelerate the establishment of a Multi-Modal Logistics Park in Samba and the development of Public Transport Terminal Infrastructure (PTTI) in Katra. Senior officials from various departments were present to discuss the status and challenges of these projects.
