Getting a better view of Shimla

A cable ropeway from the heart of Shimla may soon take tourists to the highest point in town.

"We had invited bids for the build-transfer-operate model relating to the project and Jagson International Airlines, a private company, has bagged the Rs 16 crore order to build the 750-metre-long passenger ropeway to connect downtown Shimla with Jakhu, a popular tourist point at 8,000 feet above the sea level with a Hanuman temple," said a top official of the state government. Work on the project is expected to start shortly.

"In the international-style Gondola style, 8- 12 cable cars will ply on the ropeway, to be built within two years. According to the letter of intent, the company will also run the ropeway at Rs 57 lakh per year," the official said.

Jagson Airlines International's joint partner is Damodar Ropeways, Delhi, say officials.

State Tourism Director Tarun Sridhar said, "The passenger repose would be an oval-shaped, moon-cable that will support imported cabins, besides adhering to set world safety standards."

"We are in the process of preparing no-objection certificates (NO) from residents affected by the project. Permission for cutting down trees will also be sought," said Sridhar.

Interestingly, the foundation stone of the ropeway had been laid several years ago but work hadn't started due to the tree cover in between and objection by environmentalists.

Environmentalists could still create roadblocks as the ropeway would pass over a heavily wooded area in Shimla.

"Once built, the ropeway could become a major attraction," another official said.