MYSURU: In a major win for environment activists, the district administration has junked plans to construct a ropeway at Chamundi Hills.
Briefing reporters, District In-charge Minister S T Somashekar, who chaired a meeting, said Chamundi Hills is more of a pilgrim centre than a tourist spot and it was decided to drop the ropeway project after considering all views. It was felt that since there are good roads and steps, a ropeway would not be necessary, he said.
On the road cave-in towards the Nandi statue, the minister said Rs 10 crore has been released to reconstruct the road in a scientific manner using latest technology.
Regarding new houses coming up at Chamundi Hills, Somashekar said they are considering relocating the families after identifying separate land of 4-5 acres. All efforts will be made to preserve Chamundi Hills as a pilgrim centre. The temple management has been asked to take action against those who have sub-leased shops around the temple, he added.
Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha, MLAs G T Devegowda and M Ashwin Kumar, Mayor Sunanda Palanetra, Deputy Commissioner Bagadi Gowtham and others participated in the meeting.