A new mode of transport will soon be available for pilgrims and tourists visiting Varanasi. The Kashi Ropeway project, which connects the Kant railway station with Godawlia, is approximately 96 percent complete. According to reports published at the end of October, ropeway tests have already begun, and passenger services are expected to launch in December 2026, although the exact date of regular operation will be announced by the administration.
This ropeway, spanning about 3.85 kilometers, will allow travel from Kant station to Godawlia in approximately 16 minutes. Currently, covering this distance by road transport takes between 30 and 45 minutes due to traffic congestion. The fare for the entire route is set at 50 rupees, while the trip between stations will cost 10 rupees.
To ensure passenger convenience, five stations are planned for the Kashi Ropeway, and 148 gondola cabins will be installed in the project. Each cabin is designed to accommodate 10 people. According to the plan, one cabin will arrive at the station every two minutes. The ropeway is planned to operate daily for about 16 hours.
The foundation for this project, valued at approximately 807 crore rupees, was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24, 2023. The goal of the project is to simplify movement in the city's congested areas and connect the Kant railway station with the Godawlia area.
Modern technologies and equipment compliant with European standards have been used to ensure passenger safety on the ropeway. Engineers from Switzerland supervised the construction. The safety system activates in strong winds; according to available information, ropeway operation will be suspended if wind speed exceeds 60 km/h.
In case of a power supply or main system failure, a backup system is provided that allows cabins to reach the nearest station. The cabins will be monitored using sensors installed on the towers and a central control system.
Elevators and escalators will be available at the ropeway stations. Access to cabins via wheelchairs is provided for people with disabilities. Seating arrangements in the cabins can be organized according to passenger needs. Passengers are allowed to carry luggage weighing up to seven kilograms; larger baggage requires purchasing an additional ticket. It is also proposed to install luggage lockers at Kant station.
The Kashi Ropeway is being developed not only as a means of transport but also as a tourist experience. Artistic images related to temples and ghats will be displayed on the gondolas. Chants in praise of Lord Shiva will be played during the journey. A special ventilation system has been installed in the cabins to protect against heat. At night, the ropeway and cabins will be illuminated, offering passengers a unique view of Kashi. After launch, it is expected that pilgrims heading to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Ganga Ghats will find travel easier.
The state body National Highway Logistics Management Limited (NHLM) plays a key role in the project. Vishwa Samudra Engineering Private Limited has been entrusted with the responsibility for operation for the next 15 years, starting from construction. Remaining construction work and technical tests are currently being completed. Residents of Kashi hope that the launch of the ropeway will reduce the load on the city's busy routes and facilitate travel for tourists and pilgrims.
