Drawing inspiration: A trip to Trikut would become hassle-free once the ropeway project is completed

Ranchi, Dec. 22: The ambitious ropeway project — aimed at taking pilgrims to the top of Trikut Parvat, considered the abode of Lord Shiva, near Deoghar — is nearing completion. It is expected to see the light of day early next year.

Taken up at an estimated cost of Rs 5 crore, the state tourism department would fix the date for inauguration of the ropeway after the system is fully commissioned and all necessary safety certificates are issued. Department officials feel the project should be ready for commissioning within six weeks.

Located 20km from Deoghar, this monocable detachable passenger ropeway system will help ease the rush, particularly during the holy month of Shravan, when more than 15-20 lakh people visit the city.

The ropeway, designed to carry 500 passengers per hour, will transport pilgrims to the top of the hill, where some of the major attractions are the sacred Shaligram Paththar, Naag Paththar and a groove where people light diyas and offer prayers. Residents say this was where Ravana parked his pushpak viman — arguably the first flying chariot.

There will be two ropeway terminals and state-of-the-art buildings complete with safety equipment. The service will be open seven days a week from 9.30am to 5pm.

State tourism secretary Arun Kumar Singh said that after developing and beautifying the area, they planned to set up a meditation centre, watchtowers and parks. The facilities would be made to suit every pocket.

“Jharkhand, with its immense bio-diversity, moderate climate, rich cultural heritage, places of worship and varied ethnicity, has the potential to become the ultimate destination for tourists. The tourism sector, if developed properly, can become a major revenue earner for the state and help accelerate its economic growth,” Singh said.