meghalaya-to-get-its-first-ever-ropeway-a-175-cr-marvel

Shillong, often called the ‘Scotland of the East,’ is on the verge of a historic addition to its tourism landscape.

 

Meghalaya is all set to launch its first-ever passenger ropeway, a Rs 175-crore project that aims to not only transform travel within the city but also showcase the region’s scenic beauty like never before.

 

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma formally inaugurated the project’s construction on Wednesday at Shillong Peak View Point, a place that will soon become a significant stop on the ropeway’s route.

 

The foundation stone for this ambitious initiative was laid earlier this year by President Droupadi Murmu, underscoring its importance in the state’s development agenda.

 

“This project is the culmination of four long years of preparation, overcoming challenges like land acquisition, permissions, and creating the Meghalaya Ropeway Development Authority for ensuring safety standards and licensing,” said Sangma at the event.

 

 

 

The ropeway, a first for Meghalaya, is being developed in partnership with the French company POMA, which will supply the technical equipment.

 

Construction has been entrusted to a joint venture between KEC International and Tantia Construction.

 

Once operational, the ropeway will connect key neighbourhoods, including Laban, Madan Laban, Lumparing, Oxford Hills, and Rngi Shillong, offering both locals and tourists a bird’s-eye view of the city.

 

Sangma, accompanied by Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, also handed over a second instalment of Rs 1.5 crore to the Riat Laban Dorbar as compensation for the land acquired for the project.

 

Highlighting the importance of local cooperation, he remarked, “It is of great importance that communities partner with the government. This project will ensure revenue collection, which will benefit the Dorbar and other stakeholders of the project.”

 

The Chief Minister also acknowledged the critical role of the Indian Air Force in facilitating the project, while noting the ropeway’s potential as a sustainable mode of urban transport that could help decongest Shillong’s traffic-heavy streets.

 

While the ropeway promises to add a new dimension to Shillong’s tourism, it is also part of a broader strategy to develop infrastructure that complements the state’s natural beauty.

 

The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned Rs 99.27 crore for the redevelopment of Umiam Lake and the creation of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure at Mawkhanu in New Shillong.

 

The redevelopment project at Umiam Lake includes a craft village, food court, and other facilities designed to make it a major eco-tourism hub.

 

Officials believe these initiatives will position the lake as an alternative travel destination, easing the burden on Shillong’s already stretched resources while giving visitors a unique experience in the lap of nature.

 

For a state heavily reliant on tourism, the ropeway project is a milestone. It’s not just about providing a new attraction but creating opportunities for local communities and building a robust revenue model that benefits all stakeholders.

 

As work begins, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation among residents.

 

For locals, the ropeway is more than just a transport solution; it’s a symbol of modernity and progress, seamlessly blending with the cultural and natural heritage that Meghalaya is known for.

 

When it opens to the public, the ropeway will offer a new way of experiencing Shillong—one that’s as breathtaking as the destination itself.

 

For now, all eyes are on the skies as the state’s tourism dreams take flight.