India’s Longest Ropeway in Uttarakhand Requires Risk Audit
Mussoorie Ropeway Image credit Uttarakhand Govt
Holistic Assessment Key to Success of Longest Ropeway Project
By Kiran Badoni and Ajay Daimari
Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Trivendra Singh Rawat had laid the foundation stone for the Dehradun-Mussoorie Ropeway Project in 2019. This ‘mono-cable ropeway’, expected to be completed by September 2026, will transport 1,000–1,200 people at a time, reducing the travel time between Dehradun and Mussoorie from the current 1.5–2 hours to just 15 minutes.
The ropeway project aims to address the challenges of hilly terrain, traffic congestion, road damage, bus accidents, and natural disasters, which currently hinder road journeys. This project, which will establish India’s longest ropeway, spans 5.5 kilometres with two terminal stations, 23 towers, 53 cabins (operating in both directions), and eight-seat capacities, designed to carry 10,000 Parts Per Hundred Parts per Day (PPHPD).
Starting from Purkul village in Dehradun, the ropeway will connect to the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) Taxi Stand at Library Chowk in Mussoorie. The project also aims to reduce pollution caused by thousands of vehicles.
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This ropeway, which runs on electricity and produces no emissions, is considered an eco-friendly and non-polluting mode of transportation. Limited human interference in their operation further helps reduce waste and maintain cleanliness in the surrounding areas.
The researchers also highlight the existing Gunhill ropeway (also known as Gun View Point), which spans approximately 400 metres, connecting Jula Ghar on Mall Road to Gunhill. This five-minute ride, operating from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM with a ticket price of ₹75, offers panoramic views of Mussoorie. However, technical issues or adverse weather conditions have occasionally halted the ropeway midway, causing inconvenience to passengers. A similar incident occurred with the Surkanda Devi Temple ropeway, where over 40 devotees, including MLA Kishore Upadhayay, were stranded for nearly an hour due to a technical malfunction in 2022.
These incidents highlight the need for thorough scrutiny and preparation for the upcoming Dehradun-Mussoorie ropeway project. As the longest ropeway in India, this project presents significant opportunities and challenges. A comprehensive evaluation of its prospects and potential obstacles will be essential for its successful implementation.
Project Overview and Financial Investment: The Dehradun-Mussoorie Ropeway Project, with an estimated cost of ₹300 crore, is being developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The implementing agency, Mussoorie Sky Car Company Pvt. Ltd., includes FIL Industries Private Ltd., POMA SAS France, and SRM Engineering LLP. Designed to operate in all weather conditions, the ropeway will feature enclosed, ventilated cabins with automatic doors. Each 10-seater cabin will have the capacity to transport up to 1,300 passengers per hour in each direction.
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Enhancing Accessibility, Tourism, and Economic Growth: The project aims to improve accessibility, boost tourism, and stimulate the local economy. By enhancing connectivity, it is expected to attract more tourists, support local businesses, and create employment opportunities.
The ropeway’s convenience, scenic views, and year-round operation will appeal to domestic and international travellers, including weekend visitors, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Its ease of access, especially during monsoon and winter months when road travel is more challenging, is expected to drive seasonal tourism.
Economic Impact and Employment Opportunities: The ropeway will generate employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases. Skilled and unskilled workers (Kushal Shramik/Akushal Shramik) will be required during construction, while operational staff will be needed for maintenance, customer service, and security. The increased tourist influx is likely to drive demand for local guides, transport services, and hospitality staff in hotels and restaurants.
Economic benefits will extend beyond ticket sales, including ancillary services like parking and concessions. Tourist spending will benefit local businesses, contributing to the region’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through a multiplier effect. The eco-friendly nature of the project aligns with sustainable tourism goals, attracting eco-conscious travellers and potential investors.
Regional Integration and Healthcare Access: This ropeway will integrate Dehradun and Mussoorie into a regional tourism circuit (Kshetriya Paryatan Paripath), enhancing the area’s economic output. Initiatives such as integrated travel packages, promoting local arts at terminals, and collaborating with communities and the private sector should be explored. Furthermore, the ropeway could improve healthcare access by reducing travel time during medical emergencies, though partnerships with healthcare providers to establish emergency protocols will be essential.
Risks, Challenges, and Considerations for the Mono-Cable Ropeway: Despite its numerous benefits, the project poses significant challenges. Unpredictable weather in the region, such as heavy rainfall and snow, could delay construction and disrupt operations post-completion. Environmental concerns, including deforestation, habitat loss, and soil erosion, must be addressed to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
Economically, the project’s high cost (₹300 crore) may be at risk if tourist numbers fall short or revenue fluctuates seasonally. Additionally, technical malfunctions or extreme weather conditions could compromise safety and affect the ropeway’s reputation. Local opposition may arise due to concerns over land acquisition, displacement, or environmental degradation (Zameen ka Adhigrahan, Visthapan, ya Paryavarnīya Vikṛti), especially if benefits are not equitably shared. Increased tourism could also strain Mussoorie’s infrastructure, potentially diminishing its cultural charm.
To mitigate these risks, the project requires robust contingency plans, resilient designs, and financial buffers (Unnat Mausam Purvanuman, Majboot Rachna, aur Vittīya Suraksha). Engaging local communities and ensuring equitable benefit distribution will be critical.
Affordable ticket pricing will help maintain accessibility while balancing operational costs. Safety concerns related to passenger vertigo or acrophobia (Chakkar aane ka dar ya unchai ka dar) may also need to be addressed through awareness campaigns and user testimonials.
Moreover, the project’s location in a sensitive hilly region requires coordination with defence and emergency services Partnerships (Raksha aur Aapaatkaaleen Sevaon ke Saath Saajhedaari) with local defence units and regular evacuation drills, which can enhance safety.
By addressing these challenges proactively, the Dehradun-Mussoorie ropeway can maximize its benefits and ensure its success as a transformative infrastructure project. This project offers substantial potential benefits for tourism, the local community, and the environment.
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To ensure its success and long-term viability (Deerghkaalik vyavaharyata), several key suggestions must be considered. It is essential to acknowledge the cultural impact of increased tourism and take steps to promote the region’s heritage. The ropeway could showcase local traditions, festivals, and cultural events, with design elements incorporating local art and history.
Audio guides or displays could educate passengers about the area’s cultural significance, fostering appreciation for local customs. This approach would support cultural preservation while encouraging responsible tourism.
An affordable pricing strategy is essential to ensure accessibility across different income groups. A tiered fare structure, offering discounted prices for local residents, students, and senior citizens, would enhance inclusivity. Additionally, introducing seasonal or annual passes could create a stable revenue stream, supporting long-term financial sustainability.
Prioritising the environmental impact is equally critical.
An environmental impact assessment should be conducted prior to construction, with mitigation measures such as reforestation, the establishment of wildlife corridors, and the use of eco-friendly construction materials to minimise the ecological footprint.
To enhance accessibility, the ropeway should be seamlessly integrated with existing local transportation systems, such as buses and taxis. This integration would facilitate access for both residents and tourists while helping to reduce road congestion.
Promoting eco-friendly tourism packages that highlight the region’s biodiversity and cultural heritage could attract environmentally conscious travellers.
Furthermore, developing partnerships with local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and artisan shops, would benefit the community and boost the local economy.
Establishing stalls at ropeway terminals for local vendors would provide them with opportunities to showcase their products to tourists, fostering a sustainable and inclusive tourism ecosystem.
Creating employment opportunities for local residents is vital. Hiring locals during construction and operation will generate jobs and minimise community opposition. Skill development programmes in technical operations, tourism management, and hospitality can equip the workforce to maximise project benefits. Designing the ropeway for year-round operation will enhance economic viability, especially during winter and monsoon seasons.
Engaging with local communities early and maintaining regular consultations can address concerns about land acquisition, environmental impact, and cultural preservation (Bhumi adhigrahan, Paryavaran vinas aur Sanskritik sanrakshan) . A transparent mechanism for sharing economic benefits with stakeholders will further strengthen community support. Additionally, developing a robust safety and emergency response plan in collaboration with local defence and emergency units will ensure passenger and resident safety.
To enrich the tourist experience features like observation decks at scenic points can provide panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills and wildlife. Informative signage, multimedia displays, and augmented reality (AR) or digital guides can offer visitors an immersive understanding of the area’s natural history and cultural landmarks.
A strong marketing strategy is essential for the project’s success. Positioning the ropeway as an eco-friendly transportation option with breathtaking views will attract both domestic and international visitors. Social media campaigns, collaborations with travel agencies, and partnerships with local businesses can amplify its visibility and appeal.
With these measures, the Dehradun-Mussoorie Ropeway Project can become a model for sustainable infrastructure, boosting tourism, fostering economic growth, and preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
The Dehradun-Mussoorie Ropeway Project is a transformative initiative poised to enhance regional connectivity, boost tourism, and stimulate economic growth. With its eco-friendly design and ability to reduce travel time to just 15 minutes, it offers a sustainable alternative to road transport, addressing traffic congestion, road damage, and pollution.
The anticipated rise in tourism will invigorate the local economy, create diverse employment opportunities, and support industries such as hospitality, transport, and retail.
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The project’s success depends on overcoming key challenges. Environmental concerns like deforestation and habitat disruption must be addressed through rigorous assessments and sustainable construction practices.
Ensuring safety through resilient designs, operational planning, and collaborations with emergency services is critical. Local engagement, equitable benefit-sharing, and affordable pricing will foster community support and inclusivity.
Incorporating cultural preservation efforts, such as showcasing regional traditions and supporting local businesses, can amplify the project’s social and economic benefits. Additional features like observation decks, AR-guided tours, and integration with local transport systems will enhance the visitor experience, solidifying the ropeway’s appeal as a world-class attraction.
A targeted marketing strategy highlighting the ropeway’s eco-friendly, efficient, and scenic benefits will attract both domestic and international travellers. By addressing these challenges and leveraging its strengths, the Dehradun-Mussoorie Ropeway Project can set a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure, bolstering Uttarakhand’s reputation as a premier travel destination while safeguarding its natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
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