SYSTRA India to Prepare Feasibility Report for 21-km Nainital Ropeway Network for UKMRCL

SYSTRA India, a subsidiary of the SYSTRA Group, has signed an agreement with the Uttarakhand Metro Rail Urban Infrastructure & Building Construction Corporation Limited (UKMRCL) to serve as the technical consultant for preparing the Feasibility Report (FR) for a comprehensive ropeway system in Nainital district, Uttarakhand.

Under the partnership, SYSTRA will develop the FR for a proposed 21-km ropeway network designed to improve mobility across the Kumaon region. The system will connect prime destinations—Rani Bagh, Bhimtal, Bhowali, Nainital, and Kainchi Dham—through four tentative corridors. Leveraging its global expertise in complex mobility systems, SYSTRA will focus on creating modern, safe, and sustainable transport solutions suitable for the district’s challenging Himalayan terrain at around 2,000 metres above sea level.

The ropeway corridors aim to ease Nainital’s long-standing mobility challenges while boosting tourism and enhancing regional connectivity. Benefits include reduced traffic congestion on narrow hill roads, lower vehicular emissions, improved accessibility for senior citizens and travellers with limited mobility, and seamless travel for pilgrims visiting the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram at Kainchi Dham. The project is also expected to support local livelihoods through increased tourism and improved infrastructure access.

SYSTRA’s scope of work encompasses comprehensive planning by conducting primary investigations and ground surveys, stakeholder consultations including finalisation of alignment technology selection, and ridership forecasting. The project will follow international best practices while ensuring minimal environmental impact, with careful consideration of forest conservation, wildlife corridors, and the region's eco-sensitive zones.

Sandeep Fuller, CEO (Project Services), SYSTRA India, said, “We are honoured to partner with UKMRC on this transformative mobility initiative for Nainital and the Kumaon region. Ropeway systems offer a modern and sustainable way to travel, reduce pressure on road networks, and enhance the overall tourism experience. At SYSTRA, we remain committed to delivering safe, efficient, and future-ready transport solutions that support Uttarakhand’s growth while preserving its natural beauty.”