Lucknow, May 19 (Reporter) In a bid to boost religious tourism and improve accessibility at two prominent pilgrimage sites the Maharishi Valmiki Ashram in Chitrakoot and Siddh Baba Temple atop Gorakhgiri Parvat in Mahoba in Uttar Pradesh it has been planned to develop ropeway, official sources said here on Monday. Sources said that the proposed project includes the installation of world-class ropeway systems at both sites, designed to meet international standards for safety, efficiency and sustainability. "The ropeway at Maharishi Valmiki Ashram, located in Bagrehi village on the Chitrakoot-Prayagraj highway, holds significant spiritual importance as it is associated with Maharishi Valmiki, the revered sage and author of the Sanskrit Ramayana," they said. Sources said that currently, the site is accessible via national highway (NH) 35, which connects to the base of the hills. "The total land area earmarked for this project is approximately 8,920 square meters," they said. Sources said that similarly, the Siddh Baba Temple ropeway is planned in the Bundelkhand region, at Gorakhgiri Parvat in Rahelia village in Mahoba district. "This sacred site is associated with Guru Gorakhnath and is situated about 2 kilometres from Mahoba town. The ropeway will enhance access to the hilltop temple, with a total project area of 9,750 square meters," they said. Sources said that both ropeways will be designed along the most feasible alignments, taking into account terrain challenges, geographical features, meteorological and seismic conditions, travel patterns and year-round weather variations. Sources said that the department of Tourism has invited private agencies to develop the ropeway who conduct detailed investigations and feasibility studies in accordance with global best practices. "The ropeway system at the sites will ensure all-weather operation and maximum reliability, incorporating state-of-the-art technology, stringent quality controls and high safety standards," they said. Sources said that this initiative is part of the state’s broader vision to strengthen religious and heritage tourism while providing pilgrims and visitors with safe, efficient and environmentally sustainable access to these revered locations. Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said that Chitrakoot and Mahoba hold immense religious and cultural significance. "With these ropeway projects, we are not only enhancing physical connectivity but also deepening the spiritual experience of millions of devotees," he said. He said, "Our aim is to blend modern infrastructure with our timeless heritage, ensuring that these sacred sites remain accessible, safe and welcoming throughout the year...////...