Kodaikanal Ropeway Feasibility Report Likely by September-End

Kodaikanal’s proposed ropeway project is moving towards a key decision point, with Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) expected to complete the detailed feasibility report by the end of September.

The feasibility study is intended to determine whether a ropeway-based public transport system can improve connectivity to the popular hill station while supporting tourism in the region. CMRL has been assigned the responsibility of preparing the report, with WAPCOS Ltd appointed as the consultant through an open tender. The consultancy is valued at around ₹79 lakh.

WAPCOS has already completed primary and secondary data collection along with a traffic survey covering the proposed corridor. The findings are expected to provide insights into travel patterns, potential passenger demand and the likely ridership from both tourists and local residents.

CMRL officials have also started examining possible locations for the ropeway infrastructure. In July, CMRL Director (Projects) T Archunan and Assistant Manager S Raja Subramaniam inspected the Kumbakkarai Falls area in Theni district to study potential sites and the terrain around the proposed alignment.

The current concept envisages a high-altitude transport link between Kodaikanal in Dindigul district and the Kumbakkarai Falls area. A ropeway route of around 10 km through a scenic forest corridor is being considered, although the final alignment and station locations will depend on the findings of the feasibility study.

The proposed system could also improve access to tourist attractions including Green Valley View and Bryant Park. With road traffic to Kodaikanal increasing sharply during weekends, holidays and peak tourism periods, an alternative transport system could help reduce pressure on the hill roads if sufficient passenger demand is established.

The feasibility report will assess several factors before the project can progress further, including technical requirements, route alignment, station locations, environmental considerations, passenger demand and financial viability.

The report is therefore expected to become an important basis for the Tamil Nadu government’s further consideration of the project. Details such as ropeway capacity, seating arrangements and other operational features are likely to be determined at a later stage, once the alignment and overall project configuration are finalised.