Gangtok to get cable car, public utility centre under Urban Development plans

GANGTOK,: State Urban Development department today gave a detailed presentation of its upcoming urban infrastructure projects including a cable car system to Chief Minister P.S. Golay at Samman Bhawan here.

The proposed cable car system aims to address Gangtok’s growing urban transportation challenges.

In a press release, the Urban Development department said the proposed cable car system is designed to ease pressure on Gangtok’s road network, which is increasingly saturated due to rapid urbanization, rising private vehicle ownership and the city’s linear road alignment. These issues, along with limited carriageway capacity and increasing trip lengths, are significantly affecting daily mobility, economic activity and overall quality of life.

“The project aims to introduce an efficient and sustainable transportation alternative for daily commuters…The cable car will complement existing modes of transport and strengthen Gangtok’s public mobility infrastructure, ensuring that the city evolves into a more resilient and accessible capital, and serves as a model for sustainable urban transport in hill stations across the country,” the UDD said

According to the department, Sikkim Aerial Ropeways Act, 2023 has already been enacted to facilitate the development of the project.

The station locations, alignment, financial feasibility, funding models, and project implementation timelines were also deliberated.

The plan involves designing stations with earthquake-resistant features while incorporating traditional Sikkimese architectural elements to preserve the cultural character of the town.

Two other major urban projects were also presented in detail during the session.

A proposed public utility centre at the old Tourism department building, at MG Marg, planned under a People-Public Partnership framework, will serve as a landmark entry point to MG Marg.  The utility centre will feature a dedicated taxi waiting bay, commercial and exhibition spaces, and modern public convenience facilities, the department said.

Similarly, the Ridge Park Development Project envisions the creation of a vibrant promenade with a nature walk, a 200-capacity parking facility, and an elevated road for ease of access. Conceptually, the Ridge Park will emerge as an alternative destination to MG Marg, offering exhibition areas, cultural spaces, and leisure amenities for residents and visitors alike, the release mentions.

“Collectively, the three projects – cable car mobility, public utility centre, Ridge Park development – and supporting urban infrastructure form a critical roadmap under the Sikkim Urban Vision 2047 framework. These initiatives span key urban sectors: sustainable mobility, public utilities, green and recreational spaces, and integrated commercial development. These are essential for improving infrastructure, enhancing quality of life, and supporting sustainable economic growth.”

The Urban Development department said each project balances infrastructural modernization with cultural preservation, ensuring that Sikkim’s urban identity remains rooted in its heritage.

The release adds that the Chief Minister directed expedited procedures and highlighted that the projects are not merely infrastructure initiatives but represent a long-term vision for Gangtok as a “resilient, accessible, and culturally-enriched capital.”