Aerial cable car service inaugurated, connecting Jakhoo Hill and Shimla city
In the heart of Himachal Pradesh, the picturesque town of Shimla has received a modern boost with the inauguration of the Jakhoo Ropeway. After a decade-long wait, the ropeway, inaugurated by Chief Minister Sh. Virbhadra Singh, has brought about a significant transformation in the local economy and state finances.
The ropeway, constructed by Jagson International Ltd., links Mall Road, the bustling hub of Shimla, to Jakhoo Temple, the city's highest point. This innovative transport system offers a cinematic and highly appealing way to reach the temple, providing breathtaking views of Shimla's colorful houses and roads that resemble a 3D model from the air.
The Jakhoo Ropeway enhances the accessibility of the temple, making it more convenient for elderly visitors and those who prefer not to hike or travel by road on challenging terrain. This accessibility contributes to increased visitor numbers, boosting local businesses such as shops, eateries, and transport services around Shimla and Jakhoo Hill.
The ropeway charges tickets for a two-way journey at Rs 550 per person for adults and Rs 450 for children, generating direct revenue for the state government. This revenue will be supplemented by increased tourism-related economic activity, boosting tax and business revenue streams.
From the second year onwards, 15% of the total revenue from the Jakhoo Ropeway will be given to the state government, creating a long-term financial relationship between the private company managing the ropeway and the state. The private company is also expected to provide an initial large dividend payment of Rs 57 Lakh to the state government for the first year, followed by ongoing annual payments.
The ropeway, which covers a distance of 8 Km in just 5 minutes, can accommodate approximately 6 passengers in one ride. Its financial contribution to the state government will be ongoing, providing a much-needed source of revenue.
However, the ropeway's impact on the local economy has not been without controversy. Some local taxi operators have reported losses due to the ropeway's commencement, highlighting the need for a balanced approach in tourism development.
In conclusion, the Jakhoo Ropeway has significantly boosted tourism in Shimla, benefiting the local economy through increased commerce and generating additional revenue for the Himachal Pradesh government. This infrastructure investment has made Shimla tourism more modern and accessible, supporting broader economic development goals.
[1] https://www.makemytrip.com/blog/shimla-jakhoo-ropeway-inaugurated/ [2] https://www.deccanherald.com/content/630839/shimla-jakhoo-ropeway-inaugurated.html [3] https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/shimla-ropeway-to-generate-revenue-for-state-government-117050501357_1.html [4] https://www.india.com/travel/himachal-pradesh/shimla-jakhoo-ropeway-inaugurated-tourists-can-now-reach-jakhoo-hill-in-5-minutes-1591871/ [5] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/shimla-ropeway-inaugurated/article24083666.ece
The Jakhoo Ropeway, a modern means of travel, links Shimla's Mall Road to Jakhoo Temple, creating a unique lifestyle experience for tourists, offering breathtaking views of the city and boosting local businesses. With increased visitor numbers, the ropeway contributes to the economy of Himachal Pradesh by generating revenue for the state government and stimulating tourism-related economic activity.
