The Maharashtra state government has taken a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and transportation options by submitting a total of 38 ropeway proposals to the central government. These proposals include five ropeway projects from the Pune district alone. This move is part of the Centre’s National Ropeways Development Programme – Parvatmala.
Diverse Geographic Distribution of Ropeway Proposals
Officials from the state government revealed that the 38 ropeway proposals cover various regions within Maharashtra, such as Mumbai, Satara, Raigad, Nashik, Nanded, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, and Pune. The central government has agreed to bear the execution cost of the approved projects, while the state government will provide the necessary land.
Evaluation Process and Public Works Department’s Role
The proposed ropeway projects are set to undergo thorough evaluation by the relevant authorities. A meeting to discuss these projects’ potential and feasibility is scheduled for the upcoming week, as stated by a senior official from the state public works department (PWD). These projects have garnered considerable interest, with both public and private entities expressing enthusiasm for their execution.
Ropeways as a Form of Urban Transport and Tourism Promotion
Ropeways, which were traditionally associated with promoting tourism, have evolved into a mode of urban transport that enhances connectivity within hilly and challenging terrains. The proposed ropeway projects have garnered attention not only for their potential to boost tourism but also for their ability to provide efficient urban transportation. They offer an advantage of linear alignment, which shortens travel distances and makes them economically viable compared to road transport.
Ropeways’ Capacity and Economic Benefits
Ropeways have the capacity to transport 6,000 to 8,000 passengers per hour, depending on the technology employed. Their capability to traverse over difficult terrains compensates for their relatively slower speed. Furthermore, their direct route to destinations contributes to their economic viability compared to road-based transportation.
Safety and Regulations
While the development of ropeways promises enhanced transportation options, experts emphasize the paramount importance of safety considerations. The Union ministry has advocated for standardized operating procedures and contingency plans to prevent accidents. There is a call for specific guidelines regarding distances from residential areas and spacing between cable cars for urban ropeway projects.
Towards Streamlined Approvals
In an effort to streamline the approval process for ropeway projects, a high-power committee is set to review the current requirements. Presently, ropeway projects need clearance from 21 different departments, and the committee aims to evaluate the necessity of each of these clearances.
The submission of these ropeway proposals reflects Maharashtra’s commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure and connectivity across the state’s diverse regions. As evaluation and implementation progress, these projects have the potential to significantly impact urban transportation and tourism while adhering to stringent safety standards.
