The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Prayagraj): Prayagraj, a historic city in Uttar Pradesh, is gearing up to unveil the country’s longest ropeway across a river by 2025. This ambitious project, estimated at Rs 250 crore, aims to offer a panoramic view of the Sangam and bolster tourism in the region.
The Prayagraj Mela Authority is on the brink of commencing a ground survey, essential for installing numerous amenities for this notable project. The survey will be based on an earlier detailed project report (DPR), and an agreement has been reached with the defence authorities for its execution.
Conceived in 2018 prior to the 2019 Kumbh Mela, the ropeway project’s proposal and DPR received government approval following a thorough route survey from Triveni Pushp, Someshwarnath Ghat, over the Sangam, up to Ulta Qila of Jhunsi. Despite initial delays, the project is now being revived as a focal point in preparation for the Maha Kumbh 2025.
The revised DPR includes a change in alignment. The ropeway will now stretch from Shankar Viman Mandapam temple near Bade Hanuman temple and fort to Arail bandh road in its first phase. Initially, the Army had raised security concerns regarding the ropeway’s proposed path over the fort, but the Ministry of Defence later granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Arvind Kumar Chauhan, Vice-Chairman of the Prayagraj Development Authority, outlined that the ropeway, spanning 2.2 km, will feature 15 cable cars, each capable of accommodating 10 persons. This project will significantly reduce the travel time between Viman Mandapam and Triveni Pushp. The administration plans to purchase the required land from the Army and lease some parts for the project.
The ropeway is envisioned as a unique blend of religious significance and technological innovation. It is expected to enhance the city’s tourism appeal, offering amenities such as automatic doors, restaurants, lockers, automatic ticket vending machines, parking facilities, restrooms, changing rooms, and escalators.
With this development, Prayagraj is poised to set a new benchmark in infrastructure and tourism, drawing visitors to experience this innovative mode of transportation while exploring the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.