Travel time between Kamakhya Railway Station and Maa Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati will reduce from around 20 minutes to just 6 minutes once the proposed ropeway project becomes operational, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday, January 22. The ₹213.24 crore project is aimed at easing congestion, improving the pilgrim experience, and boosting tourism in the city.
The 1.43-km ropeway will directly connect one of Guwahati’s busiest railway stations with the sacred Nilachal Hill, home to the Kamakhya Temple.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said the proposed Kamakhya ropeway in Guwahati will reduce travel time from Kamakhya Railway Station to Kamakhya Temple from 20 minutes to just 6 minutes. The ₹213.24 crore project will carry over 16,500 passengers daily through modern gondolas, easing congestion and promoting eco-friendly travel.
What the Union Minister Said
In a post on X, Nitin Gadkari described the project as an example of blending development with heritage.
He said the ropeway reflects the spirit of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi”, ensuring faster, safer, and more sustainable access to one of Assam’s most revered religious sites.
Key Features of the Kamakhya Ropeway Project
According to official details shared by the Union Minister:
- Project length: 1.43 km
- Estimated cost: ₹213.24 crore
- Travel time: Reduced from 20 minutes to 6 minutes
- Capacity: Over 16,500 passengers per day
- System: 18 modern gondolas
- Benefits: Eco-friendly mobility, reduced road congestion, tourism growth
The ropeway will connect Kamakhya Railway Station directly to Kamakhya Temple.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
Kamakhya Temple attracts lakhs of devotees every year, especially during Ambubachi Mela and peak pilgrimage seasons. Currently, the narrow hill road leading to the temple often faces heavy congestion, affecting pilgrims and local residents alike.
City planners say the ropeway will:
- Reduce traffic pressure on Nilachal Hill roads
- Improve safety and comfort for elderly pilgrims
- Cut vehicular pollution in sensitive zones
- Enhance Guwahati’s image as a modern pilgrimage city
For Guwahati, the project is expected to significantly improve last-mile connectivity between rail infrastructure and religious tourism hubs.
Project Status and Implementation
Earlier in June 2025, National Highways Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML) invited bids for the development, operation, and maintenance of the ropeway.
The project will be executed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model, indicating private participation with long-term operational responsibility.
Economic and Tourism Impact
Apart from pilgrim convenience, officials said the project is expected to:
- Generate local employment during construction and operations
- Boost tourism-linked businesses in western Guwahati
- Encourage sustainable urban transport solutions
The ropeway is also seen as part of a broader push to modernise Guwahati’s infrastructure while preserving its cultural and spiritual identity.
What Happens Next
- Finalisation of bids and selection of developer
- Detailed construction timelines to be announced
- Coordination with local traffic and urban authorities
Once completed, the Kamakhya ropeway is expected to become one of Guwahati’s most visible infrastructure upgrades, transforming how pilgrims and visitors access one of Assam’s most important temples.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the ropeway journey to Kamakhya Temple take?
The ropeway will reduce travel time from around 20 minutes to just 6 minutes.
How many passengers can the ropeway handle daily?
The project is designed to carry more than 16,500 passengers per day using 18 modern gondolas.
