A proposed ropeway connecting Karjat in Raigad district to the Bhimashankar temple could make pilgrimage journeys easier for devotees travelling from Mumbai and nearby regions. The estimated ₹650-crore project aims to provide an alternative to road travel.
Former state minister Dilip Walse Patil outlined the proposal during his visit to Bhimashankar to review ongoing temple development works. The project is expected to accommodate 144 passengers at a time.
The proposed ropeway will have a capacity of 72 passengers travelling in each direction, supporting both incoming and returning pilgrims. It is expected to improve connectivity and reduce travel difficulties for devotees.
The project is also being planned with minimal environmental impact. According to Walse Patil, construction would not require tree cutting and would involve minimal land acquisition, helping preserve the surrounding landscape.
However, the proposal is yet to receive final approval. It must first be cleared by a subcommittee chaired by the Maharashtra Chief Minister before further steps can be taken.
Meanwhile, the next phase of Bhimashankar temple development is approaching. Public access may be temporarily suspended if construction activities require it. Walse Patil has appealed to devotees to cooperate with the authorities should a temporary closure become necessary.