The National Ropeways Development Programme, known as the ‘Parvatmala Pariyojana’, is set to undertake over 200 projects over the next five years, with a total estimated cost of Rs 1.25 lakh crore, as announced by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
Economic Viability and Public-Private Partnership Key Focus
Gadkari emphasized the need to make ropeways economically viable by reducing overall project costs. He urged the promotion of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to foster the development of a robust ropeway network across the country. The minister highlighted the potential of ropeways not only in promoting tourism in hilly areas but also as a viable option for urban public transport.
Indigenous Solutions for Economic Growth
Gadkari stressed the importance of developing indigenous and cost-efficient solutions without compromising safety. He expressed his belief that ropeways hold immense potential to positively impact tourism and job creation in the country.
India’s Economic Growth Trajectory
The minister positioned the initiative within the broader context of India’s economic ambitions, stating that the country is on its way to becoming a USD 5 trillion economy, in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gadkari emphasized the focus on time-bound, cost-efficient, qualitative, and sustainable infrastructure development, aiming to improve the overall quality of life for citizens.
Gadkari highlighted the need for standardization of policies and codes to transform the ropeway industry. He encouraged the manufacturing of ropeway components under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming to boost the domestic manufacturing sector.
Hybrid Annuity Mode for Ropeways
The Union Minister revealed that under the National Ropeways Development Programme, 60% of construction support is provided under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM for Ropeways), compared to the 40% support provided under National Highways. This strategic move aims to attract more private players for the development of ropeways under the Parvatmala Pariyojana.
Government Officials and Industry Leaders Support Investment
Speaking at the Symposium, Anurag Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, highlighted the direct correlation between infrastructure development and improved quality of life for citizens. He encouraged investors to seize the opportunity to invest in India, considering the country’s projected status as one of the fastest-growing major economies.
NHAI Chairman, Santosh Kumar Yadav, provided insights into the development of flagship projects under Bharatmala Pariyojana and underscored the positive impact on the Indian economy.
Industry Collaboration and Awards
The ‘Symposium-Cum-Exhibition’ served as a platform for industry collaborations, featuring discussions between Indian and global manufacturers, technology providers, concessionaires, and infrastructure developers. The event aimed to promote ‘Make in India’ and develop a roadmap for the localization of ropeway components.
During the event, two ropeway projects, the Bijli Mahadev Ropeway Project in Himachal Pradesh and the Dhosi Hill Ropeway Project in Haryana, were awarded. Additionally, an MoU was signed between NHLML and IIT Roorkee to establish a center of excellence for ropeways and other innovative alternate mobility systems.
Towards a Safer, Cost-Effective, and Sustainable Future
The symposium concluded with sessions on promoting wayside amenities for improved public convenience. The exhibition showcased state-of-the-art ropeway technologies from both Indian and global manufacturers, highlighting the significant role ropeways will play in the growth of the Indian economy under the National Ropeways Development Program. The day-long event provided valuable insights, identified areas for policy development, and emphasized the pivotal role ropeways will play in enabling safer, cost-effective, and sustainable transportation in India.