Assam Sanctions ₹213 Crore Ropeway to Ease Access to Kamakhya Temple

Assam Greenlights Kamakhya Ropeway to Revolutionize Pilgrim Access and Tourism

Assam Chief Minister  Himanta Biswa Sarma  has announced the sanctioning of the  ₹213 crore Kamakhya Ropeway project , a transformative initiative designed to strengthen religious tourism and dramatically improve access for the lakhs of devotees visiting the revered  Kamakhya Temple  in Guwahati. The project aims to alleviate chronic congestion, reduce travel time, and enhance the overall pilgrimage experience to one of India's most important Shakti Peeths.

Project Details and Infrastructure Impact
In a social media post, Chief Minister Sarma confirmed that the project is sanctioned and construction will commence soon. The ropeway will establish a  seamless transport link between the hilltop shrine and the Guwahati railway station , providing a direct alternative to the narrow, congested roads that currently snake up Nilachal Hill. This is expected to significantly cut down travel time and dependence on road vehicles, easing a major bottleneck for visitors.

Serving a Major Religious and Cultural Hub
The  Kamakhya Temple , situated atop  Nilachal Hill overlooking the Brahmaputra River , is a cornerstone of Shaktism and attracts millions of pilgrims annually. Its significance is magnified during the  Ambubachi Mela , one of the largest religious congregations in Northeast India. The existing road infrastructure has been strained under rising footfall, making the development of an efficient, alternative transport system a critical priority for the state government.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Prospects
Beyond its religious imperative, the temple is a primary driver for Assam's tourism economy, acting as a gateway for visitors to Guwahati, Brahmaputra river cruises, and iconic destinations like Kaziranga National Park. Officials highlight that the ropeway will offer a  safe, eco-friendly, and efficient transport option , particularly aiding senior citizens and tourists. This upgrade is poised to enhance Assam's appeal as a holistic spiritual and cultural destination, generating wider economic benefits.

Alignment with State's Strategic Tourism Vision
The ropeway project is a key component of the Assam government's broader strategy to develop  world-class spiritual tourism infrastructure . By decongesting traffic and improving accessibility, the project aligns with the vision to position Assam as a premier religious and cultural hub in Northeast India, further elevating the status of the Kamakhya Temple.

Exam-Focused Important Facts:

• Project:   Kamakhya Ropeway  in Guwahati, Assam.

• Cost:  Sanctioned at  ₹213 crore .

• Religious Significance:  Connects to the  Kamakhya Temple , a major  Shakti Peeth  located on  Nilachal Hill  overlooking the  Brahmaputra River .

• Cultural Event:  The temple hosts the  Ambubachi Mela , a major annual festival.

• Purpose:  To  reduce congestion, improve pilgrim access, and boost spiritual tourism .