Mumbai: To encourage people to use public transport and providing them a comfortable and a hassle-free ride in a short duration, the Government from time to time initiates several measures.

To take another step in this direction and reduce travel time to Marve and Gorai, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has planned two ropeways, each spanning 4.5 kms long, first between Malad and Marve and, second, between Gorai and Borivali.

In a meeting with MMRDA officials on Monday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis given his go-ahead for the appointment of M/s Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Ltd to prepare a detailed project report (DPR).

The officials believe the residents of Marve and Gorai will have direct connectivity to Malad metro station on Metro-2A corridor and to the Borivali railway station.

RA Rajeev, the MMRDA commissioner, said, “In metropolitan cities like Mumbai, where people face numerous traffic issues, the connectivity will be a boon. If such a pilot project succeeds, we may initiate other projects, too.”

The Chief Minister also approved Rs3,500 crore Multi-Modal Integration project that will make travelling a hassle-free experience. The project will involve widening of existing footpaths, cycle tracks, parking zones, improvement of traffic signals and street-lighting, installing closed-circuit television cameras, pathfinding maps, feeder services, street furniture.

The project will also rejuvenate the entire road network below all Metro corridors. Commenting on the development, Fadnavis said, “Constructing Metro corridors does not mean only providing transport facility to travel from one end to another. Providing the last mile connectivity along with other improved facilities will encourage citizens to use public transport regularly.”