Shillong Peak ropeway to have negligible impact on catchment area
The Meghalaya government stated that the project's six towers will occupy only 0.2 per cent of the total area.
The Meghalaya government has stated that the Shillong Peak ropeway project will have a minimal effect on the catchment area, according to a report by Urban Acres. The ropeway is being built to link Laban with Shillong Viewpoint to improve access for tourists.
CVD Diengdoh, chief executive officer of the Meghalaya Ropeway Development Authority, said a Public Health Engineering department report shows that spring sources are located between 500 metres and 1 kilometre from the project alignment. He noted that these springs will not be affected by the construction or operation of the ropeway.
The project will run along the ridge above the tree line, with measures being taken to preserve forest cover and reduce tree felling. Diengdoh said the project is exempt from a statutory public hearing as it does not fall under Category A or Category B of the Centre’s Environmental Impact Assessment Notification.
Because the New Development Bank is funding the project, an Environment and Social Management Plan has been approved. Additionally, the Meghalaya Institute of Governance has carried out a social impact assessment and public consultation.
The system is being designed as a monocable gondola following European CEN standards with technical assistance from the French company POMA. The government confirmed that the Indian Air Force, the Indian Army, and the Airports Authority of India have provided clearances and no-objection certificates.
Funding is being provided by the PM-DevINE scheme under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region and the New Development Bank. The government has linked the project to tourism employment, though no specific job numbers or opening dates were provided.