Gadkari Unveils Ambitious 'Parvatmala Pariyojana' With Rs 1.25 Lakh Cr Investment
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced a monumental initiative under the National Ropeways Development Programme, named "Parvatmala Pariyojana," which aims to implement over 200 projects at a staggering cost of Rs 1.25 lakh crore over the next five years.
Speaking at the 'Ropeway: Symposium-Cum-Exhibition' in New Delhi, Gadkari outlined the government's commitment to developing a comprehensive ropeway network across the country. Gadkari emphasised the importance of making ropeways economically viable by reducing overall project costs and encouraging Public Private Partnership (PPP) models.
He highlighted the multifaceted potential of ropeways, not only in promoting tourism in hilly areas but also as a significant component of urban public transport. "Our foremost priority should be to make ropeways economically viable by bringing down the overall project cost and encourage Public Private Partnership to develop the ropeway network in the country," stated Gadkari.
The Union Minister stressed the need to focus on developing indigenous and cost-efficient solutions without compromising safety. He underscored the immense potential of ropeways to positively impact tourism and job creation in the country.
What Is Parvatmala Pariyojna
To promote standardisation and transform the ropeway industry, Gadkari advocated for the encouragement of manufacturing ropeway components under the "Make in India'' initiative. Under the Parvatmala Pariyojana, 60 per cent construction support is provided under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM for Ropeways), a significant increase compared to the 40 per cent support provided under National Highways.
Anurag Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), highlighted the positive correlation between infrastructure development and improved quality of life for citizens. He encouraged global investors to seize the opportunity to invest in India, emphasising its status as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world.
NHAI Chairman, Santosh Kumar Yadav, shared insights into the development of flagship projects under Bharatmala Pariyojana, highlighting their potential to have a multiplier effect on the Indian economy.
The day concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NHLML and IIT Roorkee, establishing a centre of excellence for ropeways and other innovative alternate mobility systems. Various sessions and discussions focused on building safer and affordable ropeway systems, improving the ropeway industry landscape, and enhancing Public Private Partnerships in India. The exhibition showcased state-of-the-art ropeway technologies from Indian and global manufacturers, contributing to the advancement of aerial mobility ecosystems in the country.
