Kathmandu, June 6

French Ambassador Yves Carmona today submitted a feasibility study report of Kathmandu City Urban Cable Car Project to the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport.

The French government-financed study under a technical support programme was done by a consortium of engineers and consultants comprising SYSTRA and MDP two leading transportation consultancy firms.

According to the French Embassy, the objective of this study was to put into perspective the feasibility and relevance of a cable transport system in Kathmandu for a quick solution that is operational, runs with green energy, is accessible and effective for managing the problems of the city in comparison to other modes of transportation system such as the metro or monorails.

The study identified a complete cable car transportation network system having four lines: Lagankhel-Jamal, Tankeshore-Gongabu Bus Park, Kalanki- Ratnapark, and Boudhanath-Bishnumati, read a press release issued by the French mission.

As a pilot line, the consortium made an in-depth study of Boudhanath-Bishnumati line in terms of technology and economic impacts as well as its impact on urban and social landscape.

The study found that the urban cable car system would result in 50 to 60 percent saving in terms of time, and a reduction of 30 to 40 per cent road traffic disturbances.

Some Nepali entrepreneurs and French investors have shown interest in developing this ambitious project on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

MDP is a French consulting and engineering firm with three core activities: engineering, tourism experience designing, and developing urban concept with a focus on mobility and transport.