Pavagadh: Devotees visiting the revered Kalika Mata Temple atop Pavagadh hill will soon have a significantly easier journey as the state government is set to extend the existing ropeway closer to the temple premises. Currently, pilgrims using the ropeway still have to ascend approximately 449 steps to reach the temple after disembarking.

Recognizing the difficulties faced by elderly and differently-abled devotees, the government has been working on this expansion plan. Sources indicate that the Chief Minister will perform the ground-breaking ceremony for the ropeway extension project on May 1st.

The estimated cost of this extension project is ₹115 crore. The existing ropeway, operated by Usha Breco company, will be further extended by another ropeway system from Dudhiya Talav right up to near the temple. This new section will feature 8 cabins, each capable of carrying 6 people. The technology for these new cabins is reportedly being sourced from Austria and will be fully automatic.

Once completed, the extended ropeway is expected to significantly reduce the arduous climb for pilgrims, making the darshan of Kalika Mataji more accessible to all. The project is anticipated to take about a year to complete. DeshGujarat