In a momentous occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed for the construction of a ropeway at Shivneri Fort under the Parvatmala Pariyojana of the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari. The ceremony, held in the presence of State Public Works Minister Ravindra Chavan, signals a significant step forward in the realization of the Shivneri Fort ropeway project.
Advocacy and Efforts Bear Fruit: This achievement owes its fruition to the persistent advocacy and dedicated efforts led by Member of Parliament Dr. Amol Kolhe. Dr. Kolhe’s unwavering pursuit of funds and engagement with Union Minister Gadkari played a pivotal role in securing approval under the Parvatmala Yojana. The MOU signing is a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders involved.
Path to Progress: Dr. Kolhe’s continued follow-up and coordination with relevant authorities led to the submission of a ropeway project proposal by the Public Works Department to the state government. Simultaneously, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways directed the state government to propose ropeways at several locations, including Shivneri and Jejuri. This multi-level coordination has paved the way for the MOU signing and subsequent project progress.
Establishment of NHLML and Project Acceleration: To streamline the ropeway project implementation, the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) was established under the National Highways Authority of India. With the MOU in place, a consulting firm appointed through NHLML will expedite the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) following site inspections.
Administrative Hurdles and Caution: Notwithstanding the progress, administrative intricacies involving the Archaeological Survey of India’s jurisdiction and permissions from the Forest Department require careful navigation. Dr. Kolhe emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in tackling these administrative processes, urging stakeholders to exercise patience and avoid premature assertions about the project timeline.
In closing, the Shivneri Fort ropeway project marks a historic step towards enhancing connectivity and celebrating the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, with stakeholders committed to ensuring its expeditious realization.
