A major setback occurred in Rohtas district, Bihar, as the ropeway being constructed to connect Akbarpur with Rohtasgarh Fort collapsed during its trial run. The system, intended to boost tourism and ease travel to the historic fort, suffered a complete structural failure.
(Photo: Instagram)
The ropeway project, costing around Rs 13 crore, had been under construction by Bihar Rajya Pul Nirman Nigam Limited (BRPNNL) for several years. Engineers and technical experts were present during the trial and thankfully, the cabin was empty at the time of the collapse. (Photo: X/@IndexBihar)
The cabin began its journey from Akbarpur towards Rohtasgarh Fort when one of the primary supporting pillars collapsed. And within moments, other pillars and ropeway started losing balance with the impact. (Photo: X/@IndexBihar)
Residents and officials who were present during the trial were shocked as the swing cabin, along with ropes, pulleys and other machinery, crashed down. The collapse ruined hopes that tourists would soon be able to travel the 70-kilometer route to the fort in just a few minutes. (Photo: X/@IndexBihar)
“A team of officials has been formed for the purpose. The team will visit the site and submit a report,” a senior district official said as quoted by The New Indian Express. In addition, Assistant Engineer Kaushalendra confirmed that a team from Kolkata would join the investigation to ascertain the technical reasons behind the collapse.(Photo: X/@IndexBihar)
According to a report in Hindustan Times, local legislator Murari Prasad Gautam immediately wrote to the state tourism department and requested for a detailed probe into the incident and strict action against those responsible. The ropeway was intended to facilitate devotees of Chaurasan Temple and make tourist access to Rohtasgarh Fort easier. (Photo: X/@IndexBihar)
BRPNNL chairman Chandrashekhar Singh stated that he had formed a high-level committee, led by the managing director, to examine the incident and submit its report within 24 hours. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Patna, has also been asked to conduct a design audit to ensure technical compliance, Hindustan Times reported. (Photo: Official Website)
Singh mentioned that the collapse would not create any financial liability for BRPNNL. The contractor is contractually obliged to bear any damage arising during trial runs and testing. (Photo: X/@IndexBihar)
The ropeway had been inaugurated in 2019 by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar with construction continuing over the years. It was scheduled to open to tourists on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026, which coincides with a period of high tourist inflow to Rohtasgarh Fort and nearby temples. (Photo: X/@NitishKumar)
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