Jammu and Kashmir: In a move aimed at facilitating the annual Amarnath Yatra, the Jammu and Kashmir government has announced the invitation of bids for the preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs) for an 11.60 km ropeway connecting Baltal to the revered Amarnath cave shrine. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve pilgrim movement and accessibility during the yatra season.
CM Abdullah Discloses Development In A Written Response
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah disclosed this development in a written response to the JK Assembly, highlighting that the National Highways Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML) is also seeking bids for DPRs related to three additional ropeway projects located in Budgam and Ramban districts. This initiative follows a decision made by the Lieutenant Governor-led Administrative Council on March 15, 2022, and a subsequent government order issued on September 6, 2023, focusing on ropeway development under the Parvatmala initiative.
Proposed Ropeway To Ease Travel
Currently, pilgrims taking the Baltal route for the Amarnath pilgrimage have to cover a challenging 16 kilometers of mountainous terrain to reach the Holy Cave. However, the proposed ropeway from Baltal to the Holy Cave shrine will significantly ease travel for pilgrims.
52 Ropeway Projects Have Been Proposed
The Chief Minister further revealed that a comprehensive list of 52 ropeway projects has been proposed for Jammu and Kashmir, with current bidding activity for a 1.05 km ropeway leading to the Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar. However, plans for a 2.12 km ropeway from Darshan Deopdi to Shivkhori temple in Reasi have been put on hold due to an ongoing court case.
The latest tender, issued on January 25, 2025, encompasses not only the Baltal-Amarnath ropeway but also an 8.80 km Bhaderwah-Seojhdar ropeway in Doda and a 1.60 km Sonamarg-Thajiwas Glacier ropeway. These projects are anticipated to significantly boost accessibility for both pilgrims and tourists.
Other Major Projects
In addition to these major projects, bids are being sought for several other ropeways, including the Parihas-Diskhal ropeway at Doodhpathri, Sutharan-Tosamaidan ropeway in Budgam, and Nashri Tunnel-Sanasar lake ropeway in Ramban. A pre-feasibility study is also underway for the Karchiall-Wasamarg ropeway in Ramban.
With these developments, the Jammu and Kashmir government is poised to enhance infrastructure and promote tourism, ensuring that the sacred journey to Amarnath becomes more accessible for all devotees.
