Telangana plans ropeway network for public transport
HYDERABAD: Ropeways, usually seen in hill stations and tourist destinations, may soon become part of Hyderabad’s public transport system. The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), through the Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMA), is preparing plans to introduce ropeway connectivity across the city on the lines of the Varanasi model.
Officials have sent proposals to the state government seeking policy changes to facilitate the project. The Varanasi ropeway is India’s first public transport ropeway system and is being developed as a mass transit solution to address urban traffic congestion.
Authorities are planning to use ropeways in Hyderabad to connect Metro and railway stations with nearby commercial hubs and tourist destinations. Another proposal is to create ropeway circuits linking nearby tourist attractions. The projects are expected to be developed under the public-private partnership (PPP) model to avoid burdening the government financially.
Golconda, Tank Bund among proposed ropeway corridors
HMDA is initially preparing plans to develop a 2-km ropeway corridor between Golconda and the nearby Qutb Shahi Tombs under the PPP model. Officials are also exploring the possibility of extending the network up to the Nehru Zoological Park through a 6-km aerial route.
Another ropeway proposal is under consideration between Tank Bund and Sanjeevaiah Park. Authorities are also studying the feasibility of ropeway connectivity in Hyderabad’s IT corridor.
Officials are proposing policy amendments to provide compensation in cases where ropeway lines pass over private properties. HMDA is currently seeking no-objection certificates from the Archaeological Survey of India and the defence authorities. Project work is expected to begin after receiving approvals.
Officials study Varanasi public transport ropeway model
The ropeway project between Varanasi Cantonment railway station and Godowlia Chowk covers 3.8 km and includes five stations. The system is being designed to handle nearly 96,000 passengers daily.
The road journey between the two locations currently takes 45 minutes to an hour because of heavy traffic. The ropeway is expected to reduce travel time to 16 minutes.
Experts said Hyderabad has several locations suitable for short-distance ropeway connectivity, especially in stretches where traffic congestion is severe even for 2-3 km travel. They added that ropeways could provide relief during the monsoon season, when commuters face major delays on roads.
They said the project would benefit commuters if strong safety measures are implemented and ticket prices are kept affordable for the public.
