The Assam government has made headlines with the launch of a 1.8-km ropeway across the Brahmaputra river, being touted as India’s longest river ropeway. This exciting new development is a considerable buzz in transportation and tourism sectors alike, owing to its many benefits and unique features.
About the Ropeway Project
Built at the expense of Rs. 56 crores, the ropeway stretches from Central to Northern Guwahati. It’s not just a means of transport, but also a marvel of engineering that was made possible by the use of advanced aerial tramway systems, making it one of the most evolved and lengthiest river crossing projects in India.
Aerial tramways are especially advantageous in rough terrains, as the towers can be erected at considerably larger intervals. It takes a mere eight minutes for passengers to travel the entire length of the ropeway, passing over the mid-river Peacock Island that hosts Umananda, a historic Shiva temple.
The Need for the Ropeway
The initiative was driven by the commuting challenge faced by thousands of residents every day between Guwahati and the town of North Guwahati, where IIT Guwahati is situated. Earlier, they had to choose between a ferry ride that could take 30 minutes or more (depending on the river current and season) or by road through a bridge, which usually took over an hour due to traffic congestion.
Additional Benefits
The new ropeway dramatically slashes travel time, offering an added benefit of rendering a spectacular view of the Brahmaputra river. It opens up new avenues for tourism in Assam, providing tourists with an attractive option to reach North Guwahati. The expectation is that hospitality services will flourish on this side of the river, giving the city’s tourism sector a significant boost.
Moreover, the ropeway serves as a handy and non-polluting means of transport. It is also an environmentally friendly tourism source since it is powered by electricity, ensuring its operation is ecologically sustainable. The new ropeway protects the region’s beauty while providing a comfortable and swift travel mode for passengers.
The new 1.8-km river ropeway in Assam is a remarkable transportation endeavor with potential long-term benefits for the city’s residents and tourists. Its implications for easing daily commute, promoting environment-friendly tourism, and boosting the state’s economy make it a vital development worth noting.