Garhwal Post Bureau
Mussoorie, 3 Jul: The state government has taken a major step towards finding a permanent solution to the long-standing traffic congestion problem in Mussoorie. Preparations are now underway to extend the Dehradun-Mussoorie ropeway project to the city’s key tourist attractions. Under this initiative, tourists will eventually be able to reach major sightseeing spots in Mussoorie via the ropeway. This will not only reduce traffic pressure but also offer tourists an aerial view of the Himalayas and Mussoorie’s natural beauty.
To finalise this plan, Secretary, Housing and Urban Development, Dr Rajesh Kumar, conducted a site inspection in Mussoorie alongside officials from relevant departments. He inspected the proposed ropeway route—covering areas such as Camel’s Back Road, the Eye Hospital zone, George Everest Estate, Kempty Falls, and the Cantonment area—and issued necessary directives to officials for the project’s implementation.
Speaking to reporters, Dr Rajesh Kumar explained that the government’s plan goes beyond merely constructing a ropeway from Dehradun to Mussoorie; it aims to integrate Mussoorie’s major tourist attractions into this network. This will allow tourists to easily access various locations via the ropeway, reducing reliance on road travel. He noted that this would decrease the number of vehicles in the city, alleviate traffic congestion, and provide tourists with a safe, fast, and eco-friendly mode of transport. Additionally, the ropeway journey will offer tourists the opportunity to enjoy the Himalayan mountain ranges and the natural splendour of Mussoorie.
The Housing Secretary stated that the alignment for the ropeway project has already been determined. The current inspection aims to finalise the remaining technical details. Following the inspection, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be prepared promptly and submitted to the Cabinet for approval. Construction work on the project will commence once approval is granted, with a target to complete it within approximately three years.
Dr Rajesh Kumar stated that a redevelopment and rehabilitation policy is being formulated to streamline urban development in the state. Simultaneously, a new parking policy is being drafted to provide a permanent solution to parking issues. Both proposals will be finalised and presented to the Cabinet soon.
He mentioned that the guidelines received from the Supreme Court regarding the implementation of the One-Time Settlement policy in Mussoorie have been forwarded to all development authorities. The policy will be implemented shortly after completing the necessary procedures in accordance with the court’s directives, paving the way for the resolution of long-pending cases. The Housing Secretary stated that the government aims to develop Mussoorie into a world-class tourist destination. To achieve this, work is proceeding rapidly on schemes related to traffic, parking, ropeways, and urban development, ensuring better facilities for both local residents and tourists. Mussoorie SDM Rahul Anand and other officials were present on the occasion.
