A new and technologically advanced chapter is set to begin for pilgrims visiting the holy shrines of Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib, as ropeway projects using tri-cable detachable gondola (3S) technology will soon be developed to make the journey safer, faster, and more comfortable.
For the first time in India, the 3S ropeway system, regarded as one of the safest ropeway technologies in the world, will be used in the Sonprayag-Kedarnath and Govindghat-Hemkund Sahib projects. This advanced technology allows ropeway operations even in winds exceeding 100 kmph, ensuring stability and safety in extreme weather conditions.
Unlike conventional ropeways that rely on one or two cables, the 3S system operates on three separate steel cables, two stationary track ropes that bear the full weight of the gondola cabins and one moving haul rope that enables movement. This design significantly enhances safety, prevents swaying during strong winds, and ensures smooth travel.
The technology, currently in use in countries such as Switzerland, Austria, France, Germany, Canada, and China, will be deployed in Uttarakhand for the first time. The ropeway system will also feature an AI-based smart monitoring system, which will analyse real-time data from sensors and cameras to predict potential faults in cables, brakes, and drive systems, thereby reducing accident risks.
According to officials, the gondola cabins will be fully enclosed, air-conditioned, and weatherproof, allowing comfortable travel throughout the year. Additional safety features include multi-layer braking systems, weight-balancing sensors, anti-icing technology, and vibration-free movement, even during snowfall.
The system will require fewer towers with longer spans between them, minimising construction and reducing environmental impact. The detachable grip mechanism will allow slower speeds at stations and higher speeds on the route, significantly cutting travel time. Each gondola will be capable of safely carrying 16 to 20 or more passengers.
Work orders for both ropeway projects have already been issued, and construction is set to begin soon. Once completed, the ropeways are expected to drastically reduce travel time to Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib, offering pilgrims a safer and more convenient journey.
Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan said the project would mark a major step forward in combining advanced technology with sustainable infrastructure development in the state.