As part of the National Ropeway Programme, the National Highways Logistic Management (NHLML) will be conducting a feasibility study for 40 ropeway proposals in Maharashtra. This study will focus mainly on cities such as Pune, Mumbai, Raigad, Nashik, Aurangabad, Satara, and Ratnagiri. Currently, only the Raigad ropeway is operational in the state.
Expansion of Ropeways for Transport Convenience
The proposals being considered by NHLML include connecting various tourist destinations in Maharashtra. Some of the locations identified for ropeway construction are the Harishchandra fort in Ahmednagar, Sunset Point Jawhar in Palghar, and the Goa fort at Dapoli in Ratnagiri.
Centrally Funded Parvatmala Yojana
These proposed ropeway projects will be evaluated independently by NHLML and funded entirely by the central government, as part of the Parvatmala Yojana. The Ministry had introduced ropeways as a mode of transport to mitigate traffic congestion at popular tourist spots.
Expansion Nationally and Locally
This initiative is part of a larger plan to evaluate 250 ropeway proposals across the country. Several states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh, have already signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with NHLML for the construction of ropeways under the Parvatmala Yojana.
Promoting Effective Implementation and Maintenance
To ensure the successful implementation, development, construction, operations, and maintenance of these identified projects, the MoU between NHLML and the Maharashtra government will play a crucial role. This partnership seeks to bring about efficient and well-maintained ropeway systems that can enhance tourism experiences and alleviate congestion in the state. With this upcoming feasibility study and the potential implementation of ropeway projects, Maharashtra is set to witness a significant advancement in transportation and tourism infrastructure. It is clear that the use of ropeways as a mode of transport across the country is gaining momentum, and this ambitious initiative will certainly bring about substantial benefits for both tourists and locals alike.
