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Parvatmala Pariyojana: Transforming Hilly Connectivity

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the construction of a ropeway project in Uttarakhand under the Parvatmala Pariyojana. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity in India’s hilly regions, making transportation efficient, eco-friendly, and accessible. Given the challenging terrain and geographical limitations, ropeways offer a sustainable solution for last-mile connectivity.


What is Parvatmala Pariyojana?

Launched in 2023, Parvatmala Pariyojana is a central government initiative to develop ropeway infrastructure in mountainous areas.

  1. Objective:

    • Improve connectivity in hilly and remote regions.

    • Promote sustainable and efficient transportation.

    • Reduce dependence on road transport in difficult terrains.

  2. Nodal Ministry:

    • Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

  3. Implementation Agency:

    • National Highway Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a special purpose vehicle (SPV) under NHAI.

  4. Funding Model:

    • Implemented through Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

    • Government of India contributes around 60% of the funding.


Why Ropeways?

Ropeways are an efficient alternative to traditional road and rail transport in hilly terrains.

Advantages of Ropeway Transport

  1. Last-Mile Connectivity:

    • Provides direct access to remote villages and pilgrimage sites.

    • Reduces travel time in steep and inaccessible areas.

  2. Eco-Friendly Solution:

    • Minimizes deforestation and land degradation compared to roads.

    • Reduces carbon footprint, making it a green transport option.

  3. Ideal for Difficult Terrain:

    • Overcomes topographical challenges like steep slopes and narrow valleys.

    • Enhances tourism and local economy in Himalayan states.


Significance for India

  1. Boost to Tourism:

    • Facilitates travel to pilgrimage sites (e.g., Kedarnath, Vaishno Devi).

    • Promotes eco-tourism and adventure tourism.

  2. Economic Development:

    • Enhances job opportunities in the ropeway sector.

    • Improves trade and commerce in remote areas.

  3. Disaster Resilience:

    • Provides alternative transport in case of landslides and road blockages.

    • Strengthens infrastructure resilience in disaster-prone zones.


Challenges in Implementation

  • High Initial Cost: Requires significant investment in infrastructure and technology.

  • Environmental Concerns: Ropeway construction may disturb local ecosystems if not planned properly.

  • Land Acquisition Issues: Displacement of people and legal hurdles can delay projects.


Way Forward

  1. Strengthening PPP Model:

    • Encourage private sector participation for faster implementation.

  2. Sustainable Development:

    • Ensure minimal environmental impact through scientific planning.

  3. Integration with Other Transport Modes:

    • Develop multi-modal connectivity to railways and highways.


UPSC Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding Parvatmala Pariyojana:

  1. It is implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

  2. The National Highway Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) is the implementing agency.

  3. It is fully funded by the Government of India without private sector involvement.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 2 and 3 only


UPSC Mains Question

Q. Discuss the significance of ropeway transport in India’s hilly regions under the Parvatmala Pariyojana. What are the challenges and suggest measures for effective implementation?

(GS Paper 3 – Infrastructure & Environment)


 
 
 

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