Punjab Newsline, Shimla-
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri today here informed that the Ropeway and Rapid Transport System Development Project in Shimla has received Stage-I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
The project would be an important step towards improving urban transport system in Shimla by developing a 13.79 kilometer long ropeway being constructed with an amount of Rs. 1734.70 crore connecting major points across the city. The initiative would help in easing traffic congestion and cutting carbon emissions and promoting clean and sustainable urban mobility both for locals and the tourists.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that in-principle approval has been granted for the use of 6.1909 hectares of forest land, with full compliance to all environmental and legal norms. He said that the project would generate employment opportunities for local people and provide tourists with a new and pleasant travel experience.
Agnihotri said that this project was a major gift for the people of Shimla and would play a pivotal
role in achieving the State Government’s vision of a 'Green Himachal'. He expressed gratitude to the Central Government and the Ministry of Environment for granting approval to this important project.
He further said that environmental protection would remain a top priority of the present state government and all construction activities would follow the guidelines of the forest department.