In a forward-looking move to address Mumbai’s persistent traffic congestion and enhance urban mobility, a novel ropeway system is being planned to connect the Aarey Metro Station with the iconic Film City. The initiative, proposed by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL), aims to provide a sustainable and efficient transport solution for the thousands of daily commuters, film industry professionals, and tourists who frequent the area. The project is designed to offer last-mile connectivity to a crucial employment and tourism hub that has long been underserved by public transport and plagued by chronic road traffic. This innovative solution not only promises to drastically cut down travel time but also aligns with the city’s broader agenda of fostering zero-net-carbon, eco-friendly, and sustainable urban infrastructure.
The proposed ropeway corridor, which may span 2 to 3 kilometres, is envisioned as a clean and modern alternative to road-based travel. It is expected to significantly reduce vehicular emissions and noise pollution, contributing to a greener and more liveable city. With a capacity to transport 2,000 to 3,000 passengers per hour per direction, the system will seamlessly integrate with the Mumbai Metro Line 3 at the Aarey JVLR Station, creating a smooth and efficient multimodal transfer experience. The MMRCL is currently assessing various technologies, including mono-cable, bi-cable, and tri-cable systems, to ensure the final design is best suited to the terrain, capacity requirements, and minimal ecological disruption. An additional feasibility study is also underway to explore extending the ropeway link to the nearby Sanjay Gandhi National Park, which would further boost tourism and provide a unique travel experience.
To ensure the project’s financial viability and minimise the burden on public funds, the ropeway will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, specifically a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) framework. This approach will leverage the technical expertise, investment, and operational experience of private sector partners, while the MMRCL will provide the necessary regulatory oversight and ensure seamless integration with the existing metro network. This collaborative model is a strategic move to fast-track the project and ensure it is executed with the highest standards of efficiency and sustainability. It also sets a precedent for future infrastructure projects in the city, encouraging innovative financing and execution models to meet Mumbai’s growing needs.
The strategic importance of this ropeway project cannot be overstated. Film City, a sprawling campus in Goregaon East, is a major economic and cultural hub, yet its single primary access road from the Western Express Highway is frequently gridlocked. The new elevated ropeway will bypass this road congestion, offering a direct and swift route over the hilly terrain. This will not only improve the daily commute for a gender-neutral workforce but also enhance the overall experience for tourists visiting the area. As Mumbai’s core Metro Line 3 nears completion, projects like this ropeway become essential for ensuring that the metro network’s full potential is realised, providing reliable and equitable access to all parts of the city. If successful, this project could serve as a blueprint for similar last-mile connectivity solutions, transforming Mumbai into a truly modern and sustainably mobile metropolis.
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