India's $7.93 Billion Ropeway Ambition: Gadkari Seeks Global Collaboration

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that India has 360 proposals for ropeway and cable car projects, valued at $7.93 billion. He encouraged firms from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to form joint ventures to reduce costs and boost economic viability, emphasizing the need for indigenous and eco-friendly solutions.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, revealed on Thursday that India is considering 360 proposals for ropeway and cable car projects, with an estimated value of USD 7.93 billion. Speaking at an event on financing innovative products from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, he urged these countries to partner with India on the endeavors.

Gadkari highlighted India's ongoing efforts with more than 300 tunnel projects, and welcomed German, Swiss, and Austrian firms for joint ventures in these infrastructure projects. He stressed the importance of making these developments economically viable, considering the low per capita income in India. Gadkari expressed openness to suggestions on infrastructure solutions, noting, "India has huge potential, sky is the limit."

Emphasizing economic viability, Gadkari advocated for the use of advanced, indigenous technologies that support both the economy and the environment. He underlined the priority to standardize policies and enhance the ropeway industry by encouraging local manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative. Safety and cost-efficiency remain key focal areas, he concluded.

(With inputs from agencies.)