SHILLONG, Oct 17: The Meghalaya government is set to open the financial and technical bids for the highly anticipated Shillong Ropeway project, with construction expected to begin by mid-November.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh confirmed the progress, stating, “If you recall, the President of India herself laid the foundation stone for this prestigious and iconic project a few months ago. Tourism in the state is growing by leaps and bounds. Although there are some negative voices, those who assess things objectively will see that the department’s efforts are bearing fruit.”
Lyngdoh further emphasised that significant progress has been made on the Shillong Ropeway project, adding, “Work on the ground should start by mid-November this year.”
He also noted that the project’s cost has remained unchanged, with no escalations. “We are now in the process of opening two bids – one for technical aspects and the other for financial considerations. I’ve been informed that three companies have bid for the project.”
The minister highlighted that the successful bidder must meet international standards for ropeway projects, particularly those in Europe. “Given the topography and contours of the region, we are aiming for the highest possible standards, which align with European regulations,” he said.
In September 2022, the State Cabinet had approved the state’s first passenger ropeway project, which will run from Lawsohtun to Shillong Peak at an estimated cost of Rs 138 crore. To facilitate the project, the Cabinet also passed the Meghalaya Ropeway Bill, 2022, outlining the application procedures, licensing requirements, and safety protocols for ropeway operations in the state.
