“In 2021, the Preliminary Project Report (PPR) was submitted for bi-lateral funding, despite facing initial setbacks in attracting private investors, the project gained momentum following a series of strategic decisions and approvals. The New Development Bank is funding the project. Detailed Project Report (DPR) amounting to Rs 1,734.70 crore was submitted in August last year and the approval of the project’s concept note the NDB conducted a fact-finding mission and an appraisal mission to assess its viability,’’ he added.There will be thirteen boarding and de-boarding stations along the route — Taradevi, Judicial Complex, Chakkar, Tutikandi, New ISBT, Railway Station, Old ISBT, Lift, Chhota Shimla, Navbahar, Sanjauli, IGMC, Lakkar Bazaar and 103 Tunnel and one turning station at victory tunnel.Besides it will have three lines: Monal, Deodar Cedar and Apple lines. This extensive network is designed to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and provide a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for both residents and visitors.The project is expected to provide direct employment to 250 people and indirect employment to over 20,000 people, said sources.Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said,”Our funding agency, New Development Bank, has allowed us to float the tender for the project in advance. We hired the foreign consultant for the project, prepared the detailed project report (DPR) and gave Rs 20 crore for the environment clearance for it. The ropeways are the future of the state if we want to compete with other countries in tourism,’’ he said.He also said,”The Baglamukhi ropeway will be inaugurated on November 5 and all formalities for the construction of the Bijli Mahadev ropeway have been completed. Besides we are also mulling constructing the Parwanoo-Shimla ropeway.’’
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