Context:
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved two major ropeway projects in Uttarakhand under the Parvatmala Pariyojana, connecting Govindghat-Hemkund Sahib and Sonprayag-Kedarnath
Parvatmala Pariyojana:
- A National Ropeways Development Programme aimed at boosting ropeway connectivity in hilly areas.
- Announced in the Union Budget 2022-23
- Ministry – Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
- Implemented by National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML).
- Aim –
- To enhance connectivity in difficult terrains and reduce travel time in hilly areas.
- To promote eco-friendly and cost-effective transport solutions.
- To boost tourism and local economy by facilitating better access to remote locations.
- Key Features –
- 200+ Ropeway Projects planned over the next 5 years
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model that encourages private sector participation for economic viability.
- Monocable & Tricable Gondola Technology – To ensure high capacity, better efficiency, and safety.
- Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) Support – 60% construction funding by the government, making projects more feasible.
Hemkund Sahib Ji:
- Location – Uttarakhand, Garhwal Himalayas.
- Holiest shrines of Sikhs, dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
- Gateway to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Source: IE
Previous Year Question
Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Chhattisgarh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Rajasthan
Answer: (d)