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Key Points

The Ministry of Environment has granted initial approval for Shimla's ambitious transport ropeway project. This 13.79-kilometer network will become the world's second-largest transport ropeway when completed. The project aims to provide an eco-friendly alternative to reduce traffic congestion in the hill station. Local officials emphasize it will create jobs while maintaining strict environmental compliance throughout construction.

Key Points: Shimla World's Second Largest Transport Ropeway Gets Stage-1 Clearance

  • Project to span 13.79 kilometers connecting major points across Shimla city
  • Will ease traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions significantly
  • Estimated cost of Rs 1734.70 crore with 6.1909 hectares forest land use
  • Expected to create local employment and enhance tourist travel experience
2 min read

MoEFCC grants Stage-1 clearance for Shimla's transport ropeway project

MoEFCC grants Stage-1 forest clearance for Shimla's 13.79-km ropeway project, set to become world's second-largest and India's biggest transport ropeway

"We are continuously moving forward towards building the world's second-largest and India's biggest transport ropeway - Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri"

Shimla, October 14

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has granted Stage-1 approval under the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) for the proposed transport ropeway project in Shimla.

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said in a Facebook post that the state government is steadily moving forward to build what will be the world's second-largest and India's largest transport ropeway, aimed at providing Shimla with an eco-friendly, modern, and seamless mode of transportation.

Agnihotri said, "We are continuously moving forward towards building the world's second-largest and India's biggest transport ropeway, proposed in Shimla. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, has granted Stage-1 in-principle approval for this project under the Forest Conservation Act (FCA)."

"The construction of this 13.79-kilometre-long state-of-the-art ropeway network will provide Shimla with an eco-friendly, modern, and seamless transport service," he added further.

The project would be an essential step towards improving the urban transport system in Shimla by developing a 13.79-kilometre-long ropeway, being constructed for an amount of Rs. 1734.70 crore, which will connect major points across the city. The initiative would help ease traffic congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and promote clean and sustainable urban mobility for both locals and tourists.

The Deputy Chief Minister said that in-principle approval has been granted for the use of 6.1909 hectares of forest land, with full compliance to all environmental and legal norms. He stated that the project would create employment opportunities for local people and offer tourists a new and enjoyable travel experience.

Deputy CM Agnihotri stated that this project was a significant gift to the people of Shimla and would play a pivotal role in achieving the State Government's vision of a 'Green Himachal'. He expressed gratitude to the Central Government and the Ministry of Environment for granting approval to this important project.

He further stated that environmental protection would remain a top priority for the present state government, and all construction activities would adhere to the guidelines of the forest department.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Rs. 1734 crore for a ropeway? Seems quite expensive. While I appreciate the eco-friendly approach, I hope this money is well-spent and doesn't become another white elephant project. The government should ensure transparency in spending.
A
Ananya R
As someone who visits Shimla regularly, this is wonderful! The current transport system is so congested. A ropeway will not only reduce traffic but also give amazing views of the hills. Can't wait to experience it! 🚡✨
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David E
While I support sustainable transport, I'm concerned about the forest land being used. Shimla's ecology is already fragile. Hope they strictly follow environmental guidelines and don't damage the natural beauty that makes Shimla special.
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Vikram M
Great initiative! The employment opportunities for locals and reduced carbon emissions make this a win-win. This is exactly the kind of modern infrastructure development Himachal needs while maintaining its green credentials.
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Sarah B
World's second largest ropeway in Shimla? That's impressive! Hope the fares will be reasonable for daily commuters and not just targeted at tourists. Affordable public transport should be the priority.

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