Hyderabad Plans Ropeway Network to Reduce Traffic Congestion

Hyderabad may soon witness aerial travel as authorities prepare plans to introduce a ropeway transport system inspired by the successful Varanasi model. The initiative aims to reduce growing traffic congestion in the city while also improving tourism and public connectivity in several busy zones.

The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority along with the Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority is exploring the introduction of ropeways as an alternative urban transport system. Unlike traditional ropeways limited to hill stations and tourist areas, the proposed project is being designed as a public transportation network within the city.

Officials are planning the first ropeway corridor between the historic Golconda Fort and Qutb Shahi Tombs covering nearly two kilometres. Authorities are also studying the possibility of extending the route up to Nehru Zoological Park, creating an aerial tourism and transport corridor stretching around six kilometres.

Apart from tourism locations, ropeway services are also being considered for Tank Bund to Sanjeevaiah Park and in high traffic IT corridors. Officials believe these ropeways can serve as effective last mile connectivity options between metro stations, railway stations and commercial hubs.

The project is expected to be developed under the public private partnership model, reducing financial pressure on the government. Authorities have already proposed policy changes to address compensation and clearance issues when ropeway lines pass above private properties. Permissions from the Archaeological Survey of India and defence authorities are currently under process.

The Varanasi ropeway system, which significantly reduced travel time from nearly one hour to around 16 minutes, has encouraged Hyderabad planners to adopt a similar approach. Officials say even short distance travel of two to three kilometres in Hyderabad often takes a long time because of heavy traffic, especially during rainy seasons.

Experts believe affordable ticket prices and international safety standards could make the ropeway project a major transformation for Hyderabad’s transportation system. The proposed aerial network is expected to provide faster travel, scenic city views and a long term solution to urban traffic challenges.