Chennai’s Marina Beach Cable Car: GCC Floats Tender for Feasibility Study

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has taken a significant step toward launching the much-anticipated cable car project to boost tourism along the iconic Marina Beach. First proposed in 2022 under the Singara Chennai 2.0 initiative, the project aims to provide a panoramic 25-foot-high view of the scenic coastline. In a recent move, GCC has floated a tender to appoint a consultant for conducting a techno-commercial feasibility study to assess the project’s viability.

Project Overview

The proposed cable car system will span a distance of 5 kilometers from Anna Square to the Light House on the Marina Promenade. Rope car rides, which were once limited to amusement parks on Chennai’s outskirts, are set to make their city debut with this initiative.

Key Highlights:

• Route: Anna Square to Light House.
• Height: 25 feet above ground level.
• Purpose: Boost tourism and improve accessibility for visitors.

The Role of the Feasibility Study

The tender floated by GCC seeks a consultant to prepare a Detailed Feasibility Report (DFR). The report will include critical assessments such as:

1. Soil Testing: To evaluate ground conditions and support infrastructure.
2. Economic Analysis: To analyze the cost-effectiveness and economic benefits of the project.
3. Design Specifications: Detailed engineering and technical layouts for the ropeway system.

Timeline for the Feasibility Study

• DFR Completion: February 2025.
• Detailed Project Report (DPR): To follow after the feasibility study.
• Project Kickoff: Expected by March 2025 if found feasible.

Focus on Tourism and Connectivity

Ward members and officials have actively urged the mayor and commissioner to prioritize the cable car project. Beyond its appeal as a tourism initiative, the rope car system also has practical benefits.

Improved Public Access

• Visitors can travel to Light House Metro Station and connect to the rope car system for a seamless commute to nearby public offices.
• Commute Data Integration: The feasibility study will factor in commuting trends and passenger flow for better planning.

GCC’s Vision for the Marina Ropeway

GCC Commissioner J Kumaragurubaran emphasized that the project’s continuation will depend on the feasibility study results.

“If there is feasibility, we will go ahead; or else it will be dropped.”

The Singara Chennai 2.0 initiative envisions transforming the city’s infrastructure and tourism prospects. A successful Marina Beach cable car project could attract tourists, improve local business opportunities, and enhance Chennai’s global image.