Varanasi’s 3.85-km urban ropeway project reaches 95% completion, with trial runs underway ahead of its targeted November 2026 launch. (Image Via: ig/@ayodhyasarkaar_)
VARANASI: Varanasi’s much-awaited urban ropeway project has reached around 95% completion, with trial runs now underway as authorities prepare the system for commercial operations targeted for November 2026.
The 3.85-kilometre Kashi Ropeway will connect Varanasi Cantt Railway Station with Godowlia, providing an alternative transport option through one of the city’s busiest areas. The ropeway is expected to cover the Cantt-Godowlia journey in around 16 minutes, providing an alternative to road travel through the congested central parts of Varanasi.
The ropeway corridor will have five stations — Cantt, Kashi Vidyapeeth, Rathyatra, Girjaghar and Godowlia. Girjaghar will serve as a technical station, while a total of 29 towers have been constructed along the route.
Trial Runs Begin
Trial runs are underway as authorities move the project from the construction phase towards passenger operations. During a recent inspection, Varanasi’s nodal officer Raj Shekhar travelled in a gondola from the Cantt side towards Godowlia and reviewed the project’s operational preparedness.
Officials have directed the agencies involved to complete the remaining work on priority while maintaining safety and quality standards before commercial operations begin. Testing of the ropeway system and passenger facilities will be an important part of the final phase.
₹800 Crore Project
The project is being built at a reported cost of around ₹800 crore. It is being developed as an urban public transport system for residents, pilgrims and tourists visiting Varanasi.
The full journey from Cantt to Godowlia is expected to cost ₹50, while passengers using the Kashi Smart Pass can receive a 20% discount, bringing the fare down to ₹40. Shorter journeys will have lower fares.
Faster Access to Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Godowlia station will provide convenient access to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is located around 700 metres from the station. The ropeway is expected to provide an alternative to road travel in an area that regularly experiences heavy traffic and large crowds.
The system is designed to handle around 3,000 passengers per hour in each direction. Stations are being equipped with facilities including lifts, escalators, CCTV surveillance, fire-safety systems and digital ticketing.
Commercial Launch Targeted for November
Authorities are currently targeting November 2026 for the start of commercial operations. However, passenger services will depend on the completion of remaining works, testing and the required safety clearances.
Once operational, the Kashi Ropeway will add an aerial public transport link to Varanasi’s existing road and rail network and is expected to improve connectivity between the railway station, central city areas and the major pilgrimage zone around Godowlia.
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