Shillong Peak Ropeway Project Set for 2028 Completion

The Shillong Peak ropeway project, with a budget of Rs 151 crore, is set to be completed by October 2028. This initiative aims to improve access to the popular tourist destination, reduce traffic congestion, and create over 450 jobs in various sectors. The project, developed by the Meghalaya Ropeway Development Authority, will feature 11 passenger cabins and is designed to address long-standing access issues while adhering to environmental safeguards. Local stakeholders have been consulted, and the government is encouraging community support for this significant tourism infrastructure enhancement.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 23, 2026, 17:32 IST

Overview of the Shillong Peak Ropeway Initiative

File image of Meghalaya's Shillong (Photo: @mpparimal/X)

Shillong, Oct 23: The Shillong Peak ropeway project, estimated at Rs 151 crore, is slated for completion by October 14, 2028. This initiative aims to enhance access to the renowned tourist spot, alleviate traffic on existing routes, and create over 450 direct and indirect job opportunities, as reported by officials on Friday.

The ropeway, stretching 913 meters, is being developed by the Meghalaya Ropeway Development Authority (MRDA) and will include 11 passenger cabins along with two additional cabins.

During a briefing at the State Convention Centre, the Tourism Department presented the project's design, environmental protections, and community involvement strategies.

This project seeks to resolve long-standing access issues to Shillong Peak, where visitors have historically navigated through Defence-controlled areas with security limitations.

Government efforts to enhance access began in 2012 with the establishment of footpaths from Madan Laban and Upper Lumparing. However, the steep terrain posed challenges, leading to the exploration of the ropeway concept in 2019.

Funding for the project will come from Rs 80.89 crore allocated by the New Development Bank (NDB) and Rs 70.11 crore from the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE), managed by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.

Officials addressed environmental concerns regarding forests, water sources, and the landscape, stating that the ropeway's path follows a ridge and that the environmental assessment did not reveal significant impacts on catchment areas.

The lower terminal is planned at a government forest nursery in Madan Laban, while the upper terminal will be positioned approximately 80 meters below the Shillong Peak viewpoint to maintain scenic views and address Air Force security issues.

According to the presentation, the ropeway towers will be placed outside the Umiew catchment and Mawphlang Dam area, ensuring no water sources are impacted. The sacred site of Lum Shyllong is located 3.15 km from the proposed route.

Officials noted that the cables and cabins will operate above the tree canopy, limiting tree removal to six tower sites and the two terminal stations. The reduced vehicle traffic to the viewpoint is expected to alleviate congestion and lower emissions.

An Environmental Impact Study has been conducted in line with NDB standards, and the project will adhere to relevant environmental safeguards and legal requirements.

The briefing was co-chaired by the MRDA CEO and the Tourism Department’s Commissioner and Secretary. Local stakeholders, including the Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun, participated in consultations and site inspections.

The initiative is anticipated to generate over 450 jobs in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, transport, and retail.

Community representatives expressed appreciation for the information shared during the briefing but requested additional time to review the details before further discussions.

The government has called on stakeholders to support the project, emphasizing its potential to bolster tourism infrastructure, enhance access to Shillong Peak, and benefit local communities.