Parvatmala Pariyojana: Revolutionizing India’s ropeway infrastructure

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has unveiled the Parvatmala Pariyojana, also known as the National Ropeways Development Programme. This initiative aims to undertake more than 200 projects within the coming five years, with an overall projected expenditure of INR 1.25 lakh crore.

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Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, has introduced the ambitious Parvatmala Pariyojana, or National Ropeways Development Programme. The program is set to embark on over 200 projects over the next five years, with a total estimated cost amounting to INR 1.25 lakh crore.

Gadkari underscored the importance of enhancing the economic viability of ropeways by minimizing overall project expenditures. He advocated for the promotion of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to encourage the establishment of a resilient ropeway network throughout the nation. The minister accentuated the versatility of ropeways, not only as a means to boost tourism in mountainous regions but also as a feasible solution for urban public transportation.

Positioning the initiative in the broader scope of India’s economic aspirations, he said that the country is progressing towards achieving a US$ 5 trillion economy, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision. Emphasizing a commitment to time-bound, cost-effective, qualitative, and sustainable infrastructure development, he aims to enhance the overall quality of life for citizens.

Addressing the need for transformation in the ropeway industry, Gadkari stressed the importance of standardizing policies and codes. He actively encouraged the production of ropeway components under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, with the intention of bolstering the domestic manufacturing sector.

Within the framework of the National Ropeways Development Programme, a significant 60% of construction support is extended through the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM for Ropeways), in contrast to the 40% support allocated under the National Highways scheme. This deliberate approach is designed to entice increased participation from private entities in the development of ropeways as part of the Parvatmala Pariyojana.