Sabarimala Ropeway to Be Completed Within 2 Years; DPR and Clearances to Be Fast-Tracked
New Delhi: The proposed Sabarimala ropeway project is set to receive renewed momentum, with the Centre and Kerala agreeing to expedite the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and the necessary approvals. The project is targeted for completion within two years, according to the outcome of a meeting between Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
The Sabarimala ropeway has been under consideration for several years as part of efforts to improve access and logistics at the hill shrine. According to the discussions, several of the hurdles related to constructing the ropeway through the forest area have already been addressed, with the Forest Department having reached the necessary understandings for taking the project forward.
However, the proposed use of the ropeway for transporting pilgrims remains under consideration. Concerns have been raised about the possible impact of passenger ropeway operations on the forest ecosystem and wildlife, particularly the disturbance that could result from increased human activity and noise in the forest.
In view of these concerns, the ropeway is expected to be primarily considered for material transportation and emergency medical assistance, rather than regular pilgrim movement. The final scope will depend on the DPR and the clearances required from the concerned authorities.
Other Kerala Infrastructure Projects
During the meeting, Gadkari also assured that steps would be taken to address delays in the NH 66 development and accelerate construction. Further approval for the NH 966 Kozhikode–Palakkad project is expected within three months, while land acquisition for the project is reportedly around 80% complete.
Measures to ensure the availability of river sand and quarry materials required for highway construction will also be expedited.
Satheesan also sought faster progress on the Western Ernakulam Bypass, Kothamangalam–Muvattupuzha bypasses and connectivity to Kozhikode International Airport, among other infrastructure projects.
The meeting focused on accelerating major road and transport infrastructure projects in Kerala through Centre-State coordination.