The Karnataka government is set to introduce an innovative ‘Suspended String Rail Transport System’ at the iconic Gokak waterfalls, aiming to enhance accessibility while preserving the region’s ecological and cultural heritage. To initiate the project, Karnataka Tourism Infrastructure Limited (KTIL) has invited tenders to select a consultant to prepare a detailed project report (DPR).
The proposed system is a state-of-the-art elevated rail network with lightweight, high-strength string rails supporting passenger and cargo vehicles. The consultant will explore smart mobility solutions and develop a sustainable, safe, and eco-friendly transport system connecting the scenic Gokak Falls.
Beyond transportation, the project will include essential infrastructure such as ticketing counters, food and beverage outlets, and retail spaces to generate additional revenue. The DPR will assess ridership demand, alternative route alignments, and system options while conducting a topographic survey of the final alignment.
A detailed traffic study will project ridership demand up to 2060, considering land use patterns, future development plans, and commuter preferences. The consultant will also conduct topographic and geotechnical surveys, along with an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), ensuring compliance with environmental and social regulations.
The report will comprehensively outline the system’s design, including station planning, intermodal connectivity, signaling, power supply, and maintenance infrastructure. Additionally, it will determine the optimal fare structure and evaluate financial viability through cost estimation, operational expenses, and potential revenue streams beyond fares.
Gokak Falls, one of Karnataka’s premier tourist destinations, is famed for its dramatic 52-meter drop over a 177-meter-wide cliff. The new transport initiative aims to improve visitor access while safeguarding the area’s rich cultural legacy, including Chalukyan-era marvels like the Durga, Shanmukha, and Mahalingeshwara temples.