Tragic Ropeway Accident Claims Six Lives at Gujarat’s Pavagadh Hill

HALOL, GUJARAT – A devastating accident at Pavagadh Hill in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district left six people dead on Saturday when a cargo ropeway’s cable snapped, according to local authorities. The incident, which occurred around 3 p.m., took place at the site known for the revered Mahakalika Temple, perched at an elevation of approximately 800 meters.

Panchmahal Collector Ajay Dahiya reported that the ropeway, designed to transport materials, was carrying six individuals downhill when the cable broke. The victims included two lift operators, two laborers, and two others. The crash occurred near the base, close to the ropeway’s first tower, causing fatal injuries due to the impact. Superintendent of Police Haresh Dudhat confirmed the fatalities and noted that police and fire brigade teams were swiftly deployed to the scene for rescue and relief efforts.
The Mahakalika Temple, a significant pilgrimage site, draws about 2.5 million visitors annually. Devotees typically ascend the hill by climbing roughly 2,000 steps or using a passenger ropeway. However, officials clarified that the passenger ropeway had been closed for two days due to adverse weather conditions, as stated by Collector Dahiya. The cargo ropeway, in contrast, remained operational, leading to the tragic incident.

Pavagadh Hill, rising in three stages from Champaner, reaches a plateau at 1,471 feet. The hilltop temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, is a focal point of spiritual and cultural significance. Authorities have not yet determined the exact height from which the cable car fell, and investigations are ongoing to ascertain the cause of the cable failure.

Rescue operations continued into the evening, with officials working to recover the bodies and provide support. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of ropeway systems at this popular pilgrimage destination, prompting further scrutiny of maintenance and operational protocols.