Varanasi prepares to launch country’s first public transport ropeway

India’s first urban public transport ropeway in Varanasi is moving closer to commissioning, with the project expected to transform mobility in one of the country’s busiest historic cities.

Developed jointly by the Uttar Pradesh government and the Centre, the ropeway is designed to provide a faster alternative to road transport while easing congestion in the city’s densely populated core, reported The Times of India.

Once operational, Varanasi will become one of the few cities globally to use an aerial ropeway as part of its public transport network.

The ropeway is expected to improve connectivity, reduce travel time and support tourism by providing seamless access to key destinations.

The project also complements recent investments in roads, railways, airports and river transport aimed at modernising the city’s infrastructure.

Officials expect the new transport system to contribute to cleaner and more efficient urban mobility while addressing the challenges posed by Varanasi’s narrow roads and growing traffic.