Cable Car Initiative in Mumbai Metropolitan Region Receives Gadkari’s Approval
In a significant development for Mumbai’s transportation landscape, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has granted in-principle approval for the highly anticipated “Cable Car” project in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This approval, announced on Tuesday, paves the way for the commencement of the project’s survey and the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The Ministry of Road Transport has been directed to initiate the process, with detailed plans expected soon.
The announcement was made by Maharashtra’s Transport Minister, Pratap Sarnaik, following a crucial meeting in New Delhi where he met with Gadkari. During this meeting, Sarnaik proposed the cable car project for the MMR, a sprawling region facing increasing urbanization and infrastructure strain. He suggested that the project be included under the Parvatmala Pariyojana, a scheme designed for mountain cable car services, to be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) or a joint financial collaboration between the Central and State Governments. Gadkari emphasized the need for an integrated transport system, particularly to reduce travel times between key points, such as from the airport to suburban areas. He suggested conducting a thorough survey to map out the most effective transport solutions. Sarnaik responded by assuring that a comprehensive plan would soon be presented, detailing how Mumbai’s suburbs could be efficiently connected to the airport and other crucial points.
The MMR, stretching from Palghar to Uran-Pen in the Raigad district, is experiencing rapid urban growth. The area’s road, rail, and metro networks are under increasing pressure, making innovative solutions like the cable car system essential. The project aims to address these transport challenges by offering an eco-friendly, modern alternative that reduces congestion and supports sustainable development. Sarnaik highlighted the challenges faced by the region, including rising urbanization, an expanding number of vehicles, limited transport infrastructure, and growing pollution. He emphasized the need for adopting advanced technologies and learning from successful global models to tackle these issues. Union Minister Gadkari has acknowledged the potential of the cable car project as a promising solution for Mumbai’s mobility woes and has greenlit the survey and DPR preparations. This initiative is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion while offering an environmentally friendly and innovative mode of transport for the rapidly expanding Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
