Pune: Memorandum of Understanding Signed for Shivneri Fort Ropeway Construction

Junnar, 6th February 2024: A significant development unfolded yesterday as a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed for the construction of a ropeway at Shivneri Fort under the Parvatmala Pariyojana of the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways. The MOU signing ceremony took place in the presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and State Public Works Minister Ravindra Chavan at 4:00 PM.

This milestone achievement comes as a result of persistent advocacy and efforts spearheaded by Member of Parliament Dr Amol Kolhe, who has been actively advocating for the construction of the ropeway at Shivneri Fort. Dr. Kolhe had been in constant pursuit of funds for this project, engaging with Union Minister Gadkari to secure approval under the Parvatmala Yojana, upon receiving assurance from the minister during their previous meeting.

Subsequently, upon Dr. Kolhe’s continued follow-up and coordination with concerned authorities, the Public Works Department submitted a proposal to the state government for the ropeway project. Simultaneously, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of India directed the state government to submit a proposal for constructing ropeways at various locations, including Shivneri and Jejuri. Dr Kolhe further pursued this matter by meeting Union Minister Gadkari during the Parliament session to ensure progress.

To facilitate the implementation of the ropeway project, a separate entity named National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) was established under the National Highways Authority of India. While a consultant had already been appointed through NHLML, the delay in signing the MOU with the Maharashtra Government had hindered the drafting of the Detailed Project Report (DPR). With the MOU now finalized, the consulting firm will proceed with site inspections and expedite the preparation of the DPR.

However, it’s crucial to note that the Shivneri Fort falls under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India, necessitating coordination with them and obtaining permissions from the Forest Department for space allocation. Dr. Kolhe emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in navigating these administrative processes, cautioning against premature assertions regarding the timeline for ropeway construction. He urged stakeholders to honour the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and work collectively towards the expeditious realization of the Shivneri Fort ropeway project.