The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has officially greenlit the long-awaited ropeway project aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience for millions of devotees. This innovative project is designed to ease the journey for elderly, differently-abled, and other pilgrims facing challenges with the steep 13-kilometer trek to the holy shrine.
Once completed, the ropeway will provide a quicker, safer, and more accessible way for devotees to reach the shrine, connecting Tarakote Marg to the Bhawan (the main shrine area). With careful planning this modern infrastructure will help bridge the gap between the increasing number of pilgrims and the capacity of existing facilities, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
SMVDSB CEO, Anshul Garg, emphasized that the ropeway project is a much-needed solution to the growing demand from pilgrims. “The ropeway will make the yatra much smoother for those who find the trek difficult, particularly the elderly and those with physical disabilities,” said Garg. He also pointed out that the growing number of visitors, which surpassed 95 lakh in 2023, makes such an initiative essential for the future of the shrine.
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“The board has finally decided to implement the ropeway project. It will also address how the concerns of the locals will be incorporated, ensuring that elderly and differently-abled individuals can undertake the yatra smoothly,” said SMVDSB CEO Anshul Garg.
The ropeway project will not only reduce the time spent on the trek, which take hours, but also offer breathtaking views of the Trikuta hills, enhancing both the spiritual and scenic experience.
The ropeway will particularly benefit elderly pilgrims and those who cannot complete the arduous trek due to physical limitations or the limited capacity of helicopter services.
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One of the primary objective of the ropeway project is to improve accessibility for everyone, particularly those who face physical challenges. Furthermore, this project will be providing a smoother ride for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims. In addition to this, the project will also ease congestion on the traditional trek, which has become increasingly overcrowded due to the rising number of visitors.
The shrine board has promised to consider the needs and concerns of residing near by local communities during the planning and implementation of the project. “We are dedicated to balancing the aspirations of all stakeholders, including the local population, while ensuring the pilgrimage remains accessible and comfortable for all,” Garg assured.
The new ropeway is expected to transport thousands of pilgrims each day, directly impacting on reducing travel time and enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Once operational, it will serve as a modern and inclusive solution to meet the needs of millions of devotees who make the journey to Mata Vaishno Devi every year.
