Ooty to Get High-Altitude Ropeway Feasibility Study for Tourism and Eco-Transit Boost
In a significant move to enhance tourism and promote eco-friendly transit infrastructure in the picturesque hill station of Ooty, a detailed feasibility report (DFR) on high-altitude cable-propelled transport systems, commonly known as ropeways, will be conducted soon. This initiative aims to address the growing need for sustainable transportation options in the region, which is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Chennai Metro Asset Management Limited Leads the Project
Chennai Metro Asset Management Limited, a joint venture between Chennai Metro Rail Limited and Tidco, has been entrusted with the responsibility of preparing the DFR. To ensure a comprehensive and expert-led assessment, the company has appointed Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited and Outdoor Engineers AG, Switzerland, as consultants for this project. The total cost for carrying out the feasibility study is set at 96 lakh rupees, reflecting the importance and scale of this infrastructure development.
Key Aspects of the Feasibility Study
The consultant team will undertake a thorough evaluation over a period of 120 days, focusing on several critical areas to determine the viability and impact of the proposed ropeway systems. The study will include:
- Feasibility Assessment: Analyzing the technical and operational aspects of implementing high-altitude ropeways in Ooty's terrain.
- Ridership Potential: Estimating the number of passengers and usage patterns to gauge the economic sustainability of the project.
- Environmental and Social Impacts: Evaluating how the ropeway systems will affect the local ecosystem and communities, with an emphasis on minimizing negative consequences.
- Traffic Management Improvement Proposals: Developing strategies to integrate the ropeways with existing transit networks and reduce congestion in the area.
According to CMRL, this detailed approach will help in creating a robust plan that aligns with sustainable development goals while boosting tourism. The ropeway systems are expected to offer a scenic and efficient mode of transport, reducing reliance on traditional vehicles and contributing to a cleaner environment in Ooty.
This project underscores the commitment to enhancing infrastructure in Tamil Nadu's key tourist spots, potentially setting a benchmark for similar initiatives in other hill stations across India. The outcomes of the feasibility study will be crucial in deciding the next steps for implementation, with hopes of transforming Ooty's transit landscape in the near future.
