Kullu on the rise: Lift, ropeway & riverfront trail to redefine urban mobility, tourism

Residents of Kullu town are set to experience a major upgrade in daily commuting, thanks to a series of transformative development projects. As part of the town’s beautification and infrastructure initiative, a modern lift worth Rs 2.44 crore will soon connect Sarwari and Sultanpur, eliminating the strenuous climb via steep stairs.

The project is being spearheaded by the Ropeway and Rapid Transport System Development Corporation Limited (RTDC), which has already invited tenders. The deadline for bid submissions is June 23 and the selected contractor will be given nine months to complete the work. A footover bridge is also planned alongside the lift to further ease pedestrian movement.

Currently, residents must climb a long flight of stairs or take a narrow, steep road — barely wide enough for a single vehicle — to travel between Sarwari and Sultanpur. This area is not only a vital transit corridor but also home to key landmarks such as the temple of Lord Raghunath, the former royal palace grounds, and numerous government offices, medical facilities and banks.

Kullu Sadar MLA Sunder Singh Thakur, inspired by similar initiatives in Shimla, had long championed the idea of installing vertical transport systems in Kullu. With work now underway, Thakur assured that these efforts will soon bear fruit. Among the upcoming projects is a parking facility in Khori Ropa, along with another lift that will link it to the Court Complex in Dhalpur, enhancing both public access and administrative convenience.

In a broader vision for regional connectivity, Thakur announced plans for a ropeway from the Sarwari bus stand to the paragliding site at Peej, perched on a nearby hill. This project aims to improve accessibility while giving a strong push to local tourism.

Complementing these efforts is a proposed cycling and jogging trail along the Beas river — from Bhootnath Bridge in Sarwari to Nature Park in Mohal. Designed on the lines of Chandigarh’s Sukhna Lake, this nature-friendly path will also feature meditation zones and recreational spaces.

The trail, being developed in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is expected to cost Rs 10 crore. A recent inspection by a JICA team has moved the project one step closer to realisation. Divisional Forest Officer Angel Chauhan confirmed that the initiative will not only attract eco-tourists but also generate employment opportunities for local residents.

As these projects take shape, Kullu is poised to emerge as a model for balanced urban development — blending accessibility, heritage preservation, and eco-tourism in a single, forward-looking vision.

Himachal Tribune