📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Dr. Chinchu. C
Science
NGT raises earthquake risk concerns over Bijli Mahadev ropeway plan
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 02 Oct 2026, 04:16 AM
👁 5
The National Green Tribunal has highlighted potential earthquake hazards linked to the proposed ropeway at the Bijli Mahadev shrine in Himachal Pradesh.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a notice flagging possible earthquake hazards in the planned ropeway that would serve the Bijli Mahadev shrine in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. The tribunal’s observation is based on preliminary geological assessments that suggest the area lies on a seismically active fault line.
The ropeway project, promoted by the state tourism department, aims to provide a convenient lift for pilgrims and tourists to the high‑altitude temple, thereby reducing traffic congestion on the mountain road. Proponents argue that the infrastructure will boost local economies and improve safety during harsh weather conditions.
NGT’s intervention calls for a comprehensive seismic risk study before any construction can proceed. The body warned that proceeding without such analysis could endanger both visitors and nearby settlements, and may breach environmental clearance norms.
State officials have acknowledged the tribunal’s concerns and said they will commission an independent geotechnical survey. The project’s timeline is likely to be revised pending the outcome of the additional studies.
The ropeway project, promoted by the state tourism department, aims to provide a convenient lift for pilgrims and tourists to the high‑altitude temple, thereby reducing traffic congestion on the mountain road. Proponents argue that the infrastructure will boost local economies and improve safety during harsh weather conditions.
NGT’s intervention calls for a comprehensive seismic risk study before any construction can proceed. The body warned that proceeding without such analysis could endanger both visitors and nearby settlements, and may breach environmental clearance norms.
State officials have acknowledged the tribunal’s concerns and said they will commission an independent geotechnical survey. The project’s timeline is likely to be revised pending the outcome of the additional studies.