Ropeway Project To Reduce Traffic and Increase Beach Tourism in Chennai.

CHENNAI: A 4.6 kilometer ropeway project that would link Marina Beach and Besant Nagar is now in the works. The project’s main goal is to increase beach tourism, but it also aims to relieve traffic in cities.

After the model code of conduct is lifted, National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) is expected to prepare a comprehensive feasibility assessment for the implementation of the Rs 285 crore project, as per the sources.

An NHLML representative told TNIE, “We have the state government’s in-principle clearance for the project, which has also cleared the alignment.” The model code of conduct that is now in effect prevented the completion of the thorough feasibility report earlier.

After the comprehensive feasibility report is completed, the project will go out to bid. Sources stated that the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change would need to approve the proposal for CRZ.The official added that a few land parcels will need to be acquired for the project. However, the project’s implementation is probably going to take some time.

According to government sources, the project’s goal is to increase tourism and relieve urban congestion by building a station halfway between Marina Beach and Elliot’s Beach.

Ten-person cabins equipped with monocable detachable gondola ropeway systems will be employed.

If all permits are obtained and land is purchased, the project, which is being jointly carried out by Minor Ports and the Department of Highways, will be completed in two years using a hybrid annuity system.

In order to encourage more private parties to participate in the development of ropeways, NHLML will provide up to 60% construction support under the hybrid annuity mechanism for ropeways, as opposed to the 40% support granted under national roads.

A rope car was first proposed by the city corporation for Singara Chennai 2.0 in 2022. The civic body, headed by councillor TV Shemmozhi of ward 104, had originally suggested a rope car for a far shorter route, from Vivekananda home to Napier Bridge. But the plan never really took off.