Uttarakhand government signs MoU with Swiss OEM Bartholet for ropeway development from Rishikesh to Kunjapuri temple

In a step towards promoting sustainable tourism and enhancing pilgrimage connectivity , the government of Uttarakhand, under the leadership of the chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ji, and tourism minister Satpal Maharaj, and Uttarakhand tourism development board, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the world-renowned Swiss ropeway manufacturer, Bartholet Maschinenbau AG , for the development of a ropeway from Tapovan (Rishikesh) to Kunjapuri Temple (Narendranagar).

The ropeway will connec Kunjapuri Temple with Rishikesh, thereby reducing travel time, enhancing visitor safety, and minimizing environmental impact.

The MoU with Bartholet, a leading original equipment manufacturer (OEM) based in Switzerland and part of the HTI Group, was finalized after rigorous evaluation by a high-level committee. Bartholet will be responsible for preparing the detailed project report (DPR) at its own cost, based on comprehensive techno-economic assessments, thus ensuring world-class standards in design and implementation.

Revolutionizing ropeway development

For the first time in India, an OEM has been involved right from the conceptual stage of a ropeway project. Bartholet will remain actively engaged from conception to commissioning and operations, ensuring a seamless, integrated approach. This early involvement eliminates technical ambiguities and design flaws that often arise in later stages. As a result, the project is expected to significantly reduce implementation timelines and ensure smooth execution.

This model sets a revolutionary precedent in ropeway development not only for Uttarakhand but also as a potential national model for similar
projects across India.

Key highlights:

• First-of-its-kind collaboration with a global ropeway OEM under a State-led initiative for faster execution.
• OEM-led DPR preparation and technical due diligence at no cost to the state.
• Executed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model using the Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Transfer (DBFOT) framework.
• Improves connectivity, reduces traffic congestion, and enhances safety for pilgrims and tourists.
• Boosts local employment and generates long-term revenue for the state.

This initiative is in line with the Uttarakhand government’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and global best practices.

Bartholet's selection was conducted transparently and based on the company's proven expertise in challenging terrains, compliance with international safety standards, and advanced ropeway technology.

Strategic Importance:

• Enhances the spiritual tourism circuit in Uttarakhand.
• State’s vision for modern, green infrastructure.
• Sets a benchmark for national ropeway projects under a more efficient and integrated policy framework.