The Maulakali Cable Car, a key transport link for pilgrims and tourists visiting the historic Maulakali Temple, resumed operations on Monday after a two-month shutdown caused by an arson attack. The service had been halted since September 9, when protesters aligned with the “Gen Z” movement set fire to the lower station, resulting in extensive damage to the infrastructure.
Repairs Completed; Commercial Service to Restart Tuesday
Following weeks of maintenance and reconstruction, Austrian engineers conducted rigorous system testing on Monday morning to ensure safety and operational readiness. Station Manager Suraj Poudel confirmed that commercial operations will officially restart on Tuesday evening, restoring essential access to one of the region’s most significant religious sites.
Heavy Damage Prompted Major Restoration Effort
The arson incident completely destroyed the cable car’s bottom station, prompting a large-scale repair project that involved structural rebuilding and system recalibration. The reopening is expected to significantly ease travel for devotees and tourists who rely on the cable car to reach the hilltop Maulakali Temple.
Capacity and Visitor Flow
The Maulakali Cable Car operates with 12 gondolas, capable of transporting up to 96 passengers at a time. The 1,200-meter ride to the upper station takes approximately five minutes, offering a quick and efficient alternative to the steep uphill route. Before its closure, the service had transported roughly 600,000 visitors in two and a half years, underscoring its importance to local tourism and religious mobility.
Symbolic Restart for the Region
The resumption of services marks a significant step in the region’s recovery from the disruption. Authorities and local stakeholders view the reopening as a key milestone in restoring both tourism activity and public confidence, reaffirming the cable car’s role as a vital cultural and spiritual gateway for the community.
