VARANASI, March 10 -- Trial run of the country's first urban ropeway began a few days ago in Varanasi and will continue for three months, project director Pooja Mishra of National Highway Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML) said on Monday. The Rs.807 crore project aims to improve urban transport and reduce traffic congestion in the city.

Currently, a single gondola is being tested on the nearly 3-km stretch between Cantt and Rathyatra. In the coming days, more gondolas will be added to the trial phase. Full-scale operations are expected to begin in August, according to Mishra.

The Varanasi ropeway is set to provide a new mode of transport for residents and visitors. Once operational, it will offer an alternative to road transport, reducing...