The Public Works Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh on March 12, 2026, issued the Himachal Pradesh Aerial Ropeways (Amendment) Rules, 2026, further to amend the Himachal Pradesh Aerial Ropeways Rules, 1972.
This shall come into effect from March 18, 2026.
The following has been amended:
• A key amendment is in Rule 3, where a new requirement mandates submission of detailed land particulars, including Khasra numbers and ownership details, to ensure transparency and facilitate public objections. The approval process has been made more rigorous and structured by introducing a multi-stage mechanism involving survey authorization, submission of a Detailed Project Report, scrutiny by the Inspector and Ropeways Expert Committee, and finally, public consultation before government sanction.
• Additionally, a provision has been inserted allowing promoters to seek extension of time for completion of projects, subject to government approval.
• Further, the amendment aligns the rules with contemporary legal standards by replacing the outdated Land Acquisition Act, 1894, with the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.
• A major policy shift is seen in Rule 7, where the power to fix tariffs for transportation of passengers, animals, and goods has been transferred from the government to the promoter, thereby promoting ease of doing business and private sector participation.
• At the same time, a new Rule 8-A introduces compulsory comprehensive insurance coverage, with government-notified uniform rates and a clear obligation on promoters to ensure prompt settlement of claims, thereby strengthening passenger protection.
• A new provision requires that ropeways closed due to defects can be reopened only after inspection and recommendation by the Inspector and Expert Committee. Stringent penal provisions have been introduced through Rules 12-A to 12-C, prescribing fines for violation of bye-laws, non-compliance by promoters, and unlawful interference, with penalties extending up to ₹5 lakh and even license suspension or cancellation in case of safety violations.
• Moreover, a comprehensive framework has been added through Rules 15 to 23, which lays down detailed technical standards based on international and national norms (ISO/BIS), operational safety requirements such as signalling, trained personnel, and communication systems, as well as governance provisions relating to financial reporting, audit, arbitration, and public consultation in bye-law making.
[Notification no. - PWD( C)A(3)1/2024]
