Chennai Metro Rail Limited to do detailed feasibility study for setting up cable cars, ropeways in Mamallapuram, Ooty, and Kodaikanal
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has started work to hire a consultant to carry out a detailed feasibility study to see if cable-propelled transport systems, such as cable cars and ropeways, can be set up in Mamallapuram, Udhagamandalam, and Kodaikanal connecting some of the popular tourist spots.
For instance, at Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the plan to check if it will be viable to operate a cable car or ropeway linking tourist hotspots such as the Shore Temple, Mamallapuram Beach, Lighthouse, Pancha Rathas, Krishna's Butterball, Arjuna's Penance, India Seashell Museum, Sculpture Museum, Tiger Cave, Mahishasuramardini Cave Temple, and Varaha Cave Temple.
CMRL has invited bids seeking consultants for the study and also look into improving traffic management in Mamallapuram, Kodaikanal, and Udhagamandalam.
In Kodaikanal, CMRL is looking at connectivity from the foothills to Kodaikanal Town while also linking tourist attractions such as Vattakanal Waterfalls, Green Valley Viewpoint, Guna Cave, and Moir's Point. In Udhagamandalam, the plan is to link locations such as the botanical garden, Rose Garden, Boat House, and Doddabetta Peak.
After carrying out surveys, consultants suggest several alignment options and best routes that will attract a lot of traffic. They also study different technologies used in cable-propelled transport systems and determine the most suitable one. This aside, they will also do detailed traffic projections for 30 years, fare structure, financial models, among others.
This project will need in-principle approvals from the Coastal Regulatory Authority and the Archaeological Survey of India. There will also be studies on the potential environmental consequences, socio-economic impact assessment, seismic and geological impact assessment.
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