The much-boasted project to construct a ropeway at Durgam Cheruvu in the city is gaining momentum with four private organisations coming forward to take up the project.
Estimated to cost about Rs. 4 crore, works would begin soon after the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) finalises the organisation to construct the ropeway.
PPP mode
A ropeway connecting the lake bed to the hilltop would be developed under the Public-Private-Partnership mode. Four private agencies have already submitted their Expression of Interest (EoI) for constructing the ropeway.
Under PPP mode, government does not have to invest any money, as the successful bidder will construct, maintain and share the revenue generated from the service, says APTDC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Sandeep Kumar Sultania.
The land for constructing the ropeway base and other amenities, including waiting halls will be provided on lease for a stipulated time. A private consultancy has been roped in to monitor the construction works.
The organisation which offers maximum revenue sharing ratio to the government will be finalised to take up the project in a month, he said.
Other plans
Plans have also been chalked out to construct a similar service at Kondagattu in Karimnagar district. The project is estimated to cost about Rs. 4 crore and already three organisations have submitted their EoI applications for taking up the project, says Mr. Sultania.
On the plans to construct a ropeway service at Kanakadurga Temple in Vijayawada, Mr. Sultania says talks are on with Endowments Department for allotment of land.
“Special meetings are being held with Endowments authorities and very shortly, the issue will be resolved. This apart, the Central government has agreed to sanction funds for the entire project,” Mr. Sultania adds.
