Landmark collaboration aims to elevate ropeway standards, promote eco-friendly transportation
In a landmark move towards sustainable transportation solutions, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee and the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to elevate the quality of ropeway components to international standards.
Under the visionary leadership of Prof. K K Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, and Shri Prakash Gaur, CEO of NHLML, the collaboration aims to not only enhance the safety and affordability of ropeways but also promote eco-friendly modes of transportation. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone, representing the first-ever collaboration between NHAI and an academic institution.
Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Parvatmala Pariyojana,” which aims to develop over 250 ropeway projects covering more than 1200 kilometers in the next five years, the collaboration seeks to revolutionize transportation technology while contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
The partnership also supports the Government of India’s Green Urban Transport Scheme (GUTS) and initiatives such as the National Tourism Policy (NTP) and the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, emphasizing the role of ropeways in sustainable tourism and transportation.
Sh. Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, praised the initiative for its potential to enhance accessibility, reduce congestion, and promote eco-friendly travel modes, underscoring the importance of ropeway development in advancing transportation technology.
Prof. K K Pant of IIT Roorkee highlighted the strategic significance of the partnership in fostering connectivity and driving innovation in transportation infrastructure, particularly in mountainous regions.
Shri Prakash Gaur, CEO of NHLML, expressed optimism about setting new benchmarks in the industry and driving progress in transportation solutions through the collaboration.
In addition to joint research projects, the collaboration will organize seminars, symposiums, conferences, and workshops to facilitate capacity building in the ropeway industry, furthering the goals of skill development and innovation.
With a focus on interdisciplinary research and environmental conservation, IIT Roorkee aims to develop robust and sustainable ropeway systems tailored to the unique needs of mountainous regions, promoting socio-economic development and improving quality of life for communities residing in remote areas.
Overall, the historic partnership between IIT Roorkee and NHLML signifies a significant step towards fostering innovation, addressing transportation challenges, and promoting societal progress through academia-industry collaboration.