India's first public transport ropeway in Varanasi is nearing completion, with performance trials now in their final stages.

The nearly four km route will connect Cantt Railway Station (Varanasi Junction) to Godauliya, close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, helping ease the growing influx of pilgrims and tourists to the city. According to S. Rajalingam, the Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi, the project is almost finished, with full load tests set to begin soon. The ropeway, which is expected to be operational before May, is currently undergoing speed tests, one of the final steps before it opens to the public.

Built at a cost of Rs 800 crore, each cable car will carry 10 passengers, reducing travel time between the station and Godauliya to just 15 minutes. The project’s budget also includes 15 years of operations and maintenance. Safety is a top priority, with the system meeting European CEN standards and featuring vertical evacuation capabilities.