Maharashtra to develop 45 ropeways connecting prime destinations, including Raigad Fort, Matheran
In a recent update, the state government has approved the development of 45 ropeways to be carried out by the National Highways Logistics Management Ltd ( NHLML ). The main objective of this development is to boost tourism and lessen traffic congestion in Maharashtra. This approval is part of the central government's broader initiative to enhance the state's infrastructure.
The project will also help in completing prime ropeways at major tourist locations, such as Raigad Fort, Matheran, Alibaug Chowpatty to Alibaug Fort, and the Elephanta Caves, among others.
The development of these ropeways will significantly improve accessibility to popular tourist spots and promote eco-friendly, scenic travel. Notable locations for ropeway installation include:
Raigad Fort: A historic site associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which is currently accessible through a challenging trek. This will be modernized with an upgraded ropeway.
Matheran: One of India’s smallest hill stations, where ropeways will offer an alternative to traditional road travel, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Elephanta Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is currently accessed by ferry from Mumbai. The new ropeway will enhance its connectivity.
The agreement to carry out these projects is in line with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the state and the central agency last year in February. Although the MoU was signed, the final approval was pending until the state cabinet granted its approval last month.
This decision is expected to increase the development of ropeways at several important tourist destinations, including Kunkeshwar Temple, Alibaug, Sinhagad Fort near Pune, Mahabaleshwar, and the Urmodi Dam to Kaas Pathar in Satara, as well as Jejuri in Pune district.
Previously, the responsibility for the ropeway projects was set to be managed by various state agencies, including the Public Works Department (PWD), Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), and local bodies.
But, the latest state decision issued on Wednesday clarifies that NHLML will now oversee the entire project. Additionally, the state agencies will provide the necessary land to NHLML on a 30-year lease basis.
This initiative reflects Maharashtra’’s commitment to integrating sustainable infrastructure solutions while improving convenience for both locals and tourists.
The project will also help in completing prime ropeways at major tourist locations, such as Raigad Fort, Matheran, Alibaug Chowpatty to Alibaug Fort, and the Elephanta Caves, among others.
The development of these ropeways will significantly improve accessibility to popular tourist spots and promote eco-friendly, scenic travel. Notable locations for ropeway installation include:
Raigad Fort: A historic site associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which is currently accessible through a challenging trek. This will be modernized with an upgraded ropeway.
Matheran: One of India’s smallest hill stations, where ropeways will offer an alternative to traditional road travel, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Elephanta Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is currently accessed by ferry from Mumbai. The new ropeway will enhance its connectivity.
The agreement to carry out these projects is in line with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the state and the central agency last year in February. Although the MoU was signed, the final approval was pending until the state cabinet granted its approval last month.
This decision is expected to increase the development of ropeways at several important tourist destinations, including Kunkeshwar Temple, Alibaug, Sinhagad Fort near Pune, Mahabaleshwar, and the Urmodi Dam to Kaas Pathar in Satara, as well as Jejuri in Pune district.
Previously, the responsibility for the ropeway projects was set to be managed by various state agencies, including the Public Works Department (PWD), Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), and local bodies.
But, the latest state decision issued on Wednesday clarifies that NHLML will now oversee the entire project. Additionally, the state agencies will provide the necessary land to NHLML on a 30-year lease basis.
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