Varanasi Ropeway : A newly constructed ropeway in Varanasi, built at a cost of ₹815 crore, came under public scrutiny after dramatic visuals showed the cable cars swaying sharply in strong winds. The incident has triggered widespread concern about passenger safety and the structural stability of the high-profile project.
The 3.85-kilometre ropeway, designed to connect major areas of the ancient city, is part of a major urban mobility initiative aimed at easing congestion and improving connectivity.
Shocking Visuals Spark Public Alarm
Videos circulating on social media captured the ropeway cabins swinging noticeably under the pressure of high-speed winds. The movement was strong enough to visibly shake the gondolas, prompting anxiety among onlookers and commuters.
Several locals described the sight as “unsettling,” with many questioning whether the system is truly safe for daily public use, especially during extreme weather conditions.
One of India’s Most Ambitious Ropeway Projects
The Varanasi ropeway is among the most expensive and technologically advanced urban cable transport systems in India. Built to reduce traffic on the narrow streets of the holy city, it connects major transport hubs with religious and commercial zones. The project aims to provide a fast, eco-friendly alternative to traditional road travel, especially for pilgrims and tourists.
Designed to Withstand High Winds, Officials Say
Project engineers have maintained that modern ropeway systems are built to tolerate strong wind speeds and are equipped with automatic safety mechanisms. These systems include wind sensors, emergency braking, and operational shutdowns when conditions become unsafe.
However, the dramatic swaying witnessed has led many to demand a transparent safety review before regular operations continue.
Experts Call for Safety Audit
Infrastructure experts say that while controlled movement is normal in cable systems, excessive swinging can create fear among passengers and must be carefully evaluated. They have urged authorities to conduct a detailed safety audit and publicly release the findings to restore confidence.
Public Confidence Now at Stake
The ropeway represents a major investment in Varanasi’s modernization. But incidents like this could affect public trust if not addressed promptly and clearly. Residents and commuters want assurance that the system will remain safe during storms, high winds, and other extreme weather conditions.