Varanasi is nearing completion of its Kashi Ropeway project, designed to improve pilgrim access to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple by connecting the railway station to the historic old city. This vertical mobility solution aims to bypass the narrow lanes and congestion of the heritage area. While intended to manage increasing visitor numbers and enhance comfort, the project has also raised questions about why a ropeway was chosen over more conventional infrastructure like roads or metros.