The proposed ropeway connecting Kamakhya Railway Station to the Maa Kamakhya Temple in Assam has moved forward with a fresh tender worth INR 201.52 crore, including Goods and Services Tax (GST). National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) has invited bids from private developers for the construction, operation and maintenance of the project. The initiative aims to improve access for pilgrims and provide a faster alternative to road transport.
According to the official tender document and Notice Inviting Bid dated October 21, 2026, the ropeway will cover approximately 1.43 km between Kamakhya Railway Station and the temple. The project is intended to provide direct connectivity for devotees arriving by train, making the journey to the prominent religious site more convenient while potentially easing pressure on local roads.
The ropeway will be developed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model. Under this arrangement, the selected private developer will be responsible for designing, constructing, financing and operating the project before transferring it in accordance with the agreement. The tendering process has begun to identify the private partner responsible for executing the project.
Tender documents became available through the government’s e-procurement portal on October 21. Interested bidders can submit proposals online until December 8, 2026, at 3 pm, with bids scheduled to open on December 9 at 3.30 pm. The tender identification number is 2026_NHAI-295257-1. The latest notice does not specify the construction commencement date or when passenger services are expected to begin.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari had highlighted the proposed ropeway’s benefits in a post on X in January 2026, describing it as an example of combining infrastructure development with the preservation of spiritual heritage. At the time, he estimated the project cost at INR 213.24 crore, compared with the INR 201.52 crore specified in the latest tender. Gadkari said the ropeway could reduce travel time from 20 minutes to six minutes and facilitate the movement of more than 16,500 passengers daily.
The proposed system is expected to feature 18 gondolas and could offer an alternative transport option for pilgrims visiting the temple. Beyond improving accessibility, the project is projected to help reduce road congestion, encourage more efficient transport and support local tourism and employment. With the bidding process underway, further details regarding construction timelines and the start of passenger operations are awaited.