Gravity Goods Ropeways (GGR)

Nepal

GGR is one of the flagship technologies of the Practical Action Nepal office. It works solely on gravitational force without using any external power such as electricity or fossil fuel thus making suitable transport option in the mountain and hilly region. It works two ways - sending produce down from the top by gravitational force and in the same time a smaller load (one third) is taken up by the force of goods descending down.

Project Stage

Scaling

Implementation time

5+ years

Total Cost

$24,286.00

Last update: October 05, 2023

Overview Contributors

Challenge

It is unknown whether GGR contributes to addressing serious problems like poverty reduction and food insecurity. Additionally, there is no evidence to support whether it is beneficial in hilly areas and should be replicated globally.

Description

The GGR system works on a simple technology. Two linked trolleys, on pulleys, run on separate 10mm diameter steel wires which are suspended from towers. When the full trolley comes down, pulled by the weight of its load, it pulls the empty one up and readies it for the next load. The trolleys’ progress is controlled by another 8mm wire, looped over a wheel. A wooden drum brake, with bearing and bracket, governs their speed. The total cost of one ropeway installation is NPR 2,500,000 (US $24,286). Once installed, it does not require any operation costs besides minor regular maintenance.

SDGs

Outcomes

Since its introduction in 2000 in Nepal, Practical Action has installed 22 GGRs in the region. The technology is being used directly by 5000 households with indirect beneficiaries numbering more than 20000 households. Feasibility studies have been undertaken in India and Bhutan for replication.