Belagavi: The long-pending cable car project at Gokak Falls has moved a major step closer to reality, with the Karnataka government receiving the proposal for final approval. Estimated to cost around Rs 40 crore, the project is expected to give a major boost to tourism in the region and provide visitors with a safer and more modern way to experience the famous waterfall.
The actual work on the project is expected to begin once the state government grants the final clearance and the remaining statutory formalities are completed.
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Finance Department Gives Clearance
The proposal has already received approval from the Karnataka Finance Department, paving the way for the tourism project to move into its next phase. State tourism authorities are keen to proceed after completing the necessary preliminary studies and obtaining the remaining regulatory clearances.
Before finalising the proposal, authorities commissioned an extensive study covering the technical, geographical and environmental aspects of the project.
RITES Conducts Feasibility Study
Rail India Technical and Economic Services (RITES) prepared a comprehensive feasibility report for the proposed cable car system.
The study examined several key aspects, including the terrain around Gokak Falls, the feasibility of the proposed cable car route, passenger safety requirements, likely environmental impact and other technical parameters.
The findings of the study have helped authorities assess the project’s viability and determine the requirements before construction can begin.
Forest and Environment Clearances Pending
Tourism Minister KJ George has directed officials to complete the remaining statutory procedures and secure mandatory approvals from the forest and environment departments.
Once these clearances are obtained, the government is expected to invite tenders for the project.
Officials are working to ensure that the required formalities are completed without further delay.
Project to Follow PPP Model
The Karnataka government had initially approached the Centre regarding the project. The proposal was presented to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in 2024.
However, following a lukewarm response from the Centre, the state government subsequently decided to take up the project independently under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
Boost to Tourism and Local Employment
Gokak Falls, often described as the ‘Niagara of Karnataka’, is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Belagavi district.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan said the cable car project could create employment opportunities for local youth while strengthening tourism infrastructure in the area.
The project is also expected to provide tourists with a modern and safe way to view the waterfall from above. Improved tourism infrastructure could attract more visitors and generate additional economic activity for businesses and communities in the surrounding area.
The cable car could also benefit pilgrims travelling to nearby religious destinations by improving connectivity within the region.
Historic Suspension Bridge Remains Closed
The proposed cable car has gained further importance as the historic British-era suspension bridge at Gokak Falls remains closed to tourists because of safety concerns.
The cable car is expected to provide an alternative attraction, allowing visitors to enjoy an aerial view of the waterfall while reducing dependence on the old suspension bridge for viewing the falls.
Gokak Falls: A Major Natural Attraction
Gokak Falls is formed by the Ghataprabha River and is known for its spectacular horseshoe-shaped cascade and dramatic gorge.
The waterfall is around 52 metres high, with the cascade stretching approximately 581 feet in width before plunging into a gorge about 171 feet deep.
The combination of the waterfall, surrounding rocky landscape and historic infrastructure has made Gokak Falls a major tourist destination in northern Karnataka.
Government Hopes Work Will Begin Soon
District minister Satish Jarkiholi said the state government has fast-tracked the approval process to prevent further delays in implementing the project.
“I hope the project work will take off soon once all the formalities are completed,” Jarkiholi told The Times of India.
With the Finance Department’s approval already in place and the feasibility study completed, the project is now awaiting the final statutory clearances before moving towards the tendering and construction stages.
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