Capital to get ropeways across Yamuna: L-G office

In a push towards non-polluting public transport solutions, Lieutenant Governor (L-G) VK Saxena has directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to begin site surveys and planning for ropeways or cableways across the Yamuna river, Raj Niwas officials said on Thursday.

Officials said the ropeway system would consist of cable cars capable of carrying about 50 passengers each, operating at fixed timings from morning to night. The project aims to connect areas near Metro stations on either side of the Yamuna, with a focus on ensuring minimal disruption to the river’s floodplains, they added.

“The DDA has been tasked with identifying sites for installations without encroaching upon or concretising the floodplains. The selected locations will prioritise walkable distances from Metro and DTC nodes to ensure easy accessibility for the public,” an official said.

The official said ropeways would not only cut down air pollution caused by conventional transport, but also help decongest roads and bridges across the Yamuna. “This initiative will provide an alternate mode of transport, encouraging people to walk and use public transport instead of private vehicles, thus contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment,” he added.

The L-G’s directive also stressed the importance of creating additional, shorter routes. Officials cited the examples of sites like Baansera and Asita on the Yamuna floodplains, where parking areas have been deliberately located away from the main parks to encourage walking. “The same philosophy applies here — facilitating sustainable transport solutions while promoting physical fitness,” an official said. The DDA has been instructed to submit a preliminary report within a month.