Shiv Sena MP Ravindra Waikar Proposes Ropeway Transport To Ease Traffic In Mahabaleshwar

Mumbai: To ease traffic congestion and mitigate environmental degradation in the popular hill station of Mahabaleshwar, Member of Parliament from Mumbai North West, Ravindra Waikar, has submitted a written request to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, urging the launch of eco-friendly ropeway transport services in the region.

Waikar proposed two ropeway routes: Poladpur to Mahabaleshwar and Wai to Panchgani-Mahabaleshwar, aiming to provide an alternative to the overcrowded and narrow ghat roads currently used by thousands of tourists visiting the hill station every year.

In his letter, Waikar highlighted that Mahabaleshwar is not only one of Maharashtra’s top tourist destinations but also accounts for 85% of India's total strawberry production. However, the rapid increase in tourism has led to a surge in vehicular traffic, pollution, and strain on the fragile local ecosystem.

“Eco-friendly and long-term solutions are needed to preserve the natural beauty and sustainability of Mahabaleshwar,” Waikar stated, noting that the existing routes like Ambenali and Medha ghats are narrow, steep, and often hazardous during peak tourist seasons. These routes experience severe traffic jams during holidays, leading to increased travel time, fuel wastage, and pollution.

The proposed ropeway project, Waikar said, would reduce vehicle congestion, lower noise and air pollution, protect the local wildlife and forest ecosystem, and offer tourists a scenic, safe, and efficient mode of transport. Additionally, the project would provide an economic boost to local communities by generating employment and business opportunities.

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Waikar also suggested that:

Both ropeway terminals should have modern, eco-friendly parking facilities

The project should be designed considering climate change projections for the next 50 years

A detailed study should be conducted, taking into account temperature, rainfall, fog, and wind patterns to ensure long-term viability and safety

The MP emphasized that such a sustainable transport system would not only benefit tourism but also serve as a model for balancing development with environmental conservation in ecologically sensitive areas.