Bimal Gurung lays foundation stone for ropeway project

EOI, Kurseong, 28 January 2014: GTA chief Bimal Gurung today laid the foundation stone for a passenger ropeway from Giddhapahar to Jagadhamba Mandir in Rohini. The ceremony was held at the Rock Garden in Giddhay Pahar, Kurseong.

Addressing the gathering, Gurung said it is the responsibility of the people of Kurseong to make the ropeway project a success. He said both tourists and the residents of Kurseong will benefit from the new project.

The GTA chief executive also urged people to launch eco-tourism, village tourism and home stay initiatives to cater to increasing demand in these sectors and to remain self employed.

He directed GTA tourism officials to add and create more tourism infrastructure at Giddhay Pahar and Rohini to attract tourists as he believes the ropeway alone would not attract enough visitors.

He further informed the GTA has planned various projects to develop Kurseong and accordingly, a medical college will soon be inaugurated. Gurung added the GTA has also decided to set up another ropeway from Giddhapahar to INS Bus Terminus in the second phase in order to ease traffic congestion in Kurseong.

GTA tourism executive director Sonam Bhutia said Rs4 crore was initially estimated and sanctioned for the project, but with additional plans more funds will be needed. He added the first phase of programme is estimated to be completed within 18 months.