NITI comes up with draft MCA for ropeway projects in India

Government think tank NITI Aayog today came up with a draft model concession agreement (MCA) for public private partnership for implementing ropeway projects in India, a move to facilitate development of inaccessible terrains as tourist spots in many parts.

The Aayog in its draft report said that there has been a renewed interest in passenger ropeway and ropeways are also being considered as an alternative for providing urban transport.

"In order to standardise quality and project implementation of ropeway projects in the country, NITI Aayog has had discussions with different stakeholders and identified that the MCA document should guide the state governments to design, engineer and implement world class projects which focus on passenger safety in its operation," the draft report said.

Noting that ropeway among various aerial transit options is the oldest option which is functioning successfully around the world, the draft said adding that it has dual benefits - removal of congestion and low on pollution.

According to draft report, a ropeway project can be set up in about 24 months and for cities where metro is not viable, ropeway can be alternative option for main public transit system.

Furthermore, it said in order to ensure safety and quality of services, NITI Aayog has recommended globally accepted European CEN standard, adding that most markets across the globe including the US, China etc have adopted CEN standard as a benchmark for reliable and high quality ropeways.

Line ministries and all concerned stakeholders are invited to share and send their comments by May 10.