The construction of the Purnagiri Ropeway in Uttarakhand has hit a major roadblock. The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) has issued a contract termination notice to the company responsible for the project due to significant delays. The ropeway, intended to ease travel to the revered Purnagiri Dham, was scheduled for completion by April 30, 2025. However, the basic infrastructure is yet to be completed.
Located 22 kilometers from Tanakpur in Champawat district, Purnagiri Dham attracts around 50 lakh devotees annually, especially during the three-month-long fair following Holi. The project was initially contracted to Purnagiri Ropeway Project Company Pvt. Ltd. in October 2012. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed his desire for the ropeway’s timely completion to benefit devotees, but the company has failed to make notable progress.
The ropeway will span 902 meters from Hanuman Chatti to Kali Mandir, reducing the current five-kilometer road journey and three-kilometer uphill trek. The company was responsible for both construction and operation under a revenue-sharing model with the government. Following the notice, the company has requested a two-year extension, citing unforeseen challenges.
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In its response, the company argued that delays were not due to negligence but factors beyond its control. A weak soil structure at the proposed site for the upper terminal station was identified during the preliminary survey. Additionally, the region’s seismic vulnerability has further complicated the project. To address these challenges, the company has partnered with China Machine-Building International Corporation for cabin supply, construction, and engineering support.
The final decision on the project will be made in an upcoming secretary-level meeting.
