Belagavi : A proposal for a Rs 40-crore cable car project at Gokak Falls has been submitted to the state govt for final approval, marking a significant step towards realising the long-pending tourism initiative. The actual work will begin once the govt grants clearance.
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Deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan said the project is expected to generate employment opportunities for local youth, strengthen tourism infrastructure, and provide visitors with a modern and safe way to experience the falls. District minister Satish Jarkiholi told TOI that the state govt has fast-tracked the approval process to avoid delays. “I hope the project work will take off soon once all the formalities are completed,” he said.
The proposal has already received approval from the Karnataka finance department, and the state tourism authorities are keen to move ahead after completing preliminary feasibility studies. It could also benefit pilgrims visiting nearby religious sites by improving regional connectivity. Download the TOI App.
Often called the ‘Niagara of Karnataka’, the 52-metre-high waterfall on the Ghataprabha River attracts visitors from across the country. The falls feature a 581-foot-wide cascade plunging into a 171-foot-deep gorge. The state had first pitched the project to Union minister Nitin Gadkari in 2024 but later decided to execute it independently under a public-private partnership (PPP) model after receiving a lukewarm response from the Centre.
Before finalising the proposal, an extensive study was conducted to examine the project’s technical, geographical, and environmental aspects. Rail India Technical and Economic Services (RITES) prepared a comprehensive feasibility report covering the terrain around the falls, the viability of the proposed cable car route, passenger safety requirements, likely environmental impact, and other technical parameters. State tourism minister KJ George has directed officials to clear the remaining statutory hurdles, including mandatory approvals from the forest and environment departments, before final tenders are invited.
The historic British-era suspension bridge at the falls remains closed to tourists due to safety concerns. The proposed cable car is expected to offer a safe aerial view of the waterfall and serve as an alternative attraction.