Kozhikode: The ropeway project promoted by the Wayanad Chamber of Commerce (WCC) is awaiting the green signal of Union ministry of environment and forests as it may need some forest land. The promoters of the Rs 50-crore venture have already met top forest officials in Wayanad and Kozhikode districts over the hurdle. The ropeway connecting Adivaram in Kozhikode district with Lakkidi in Wayanad through the Ghats was a long dream of the tourism industry. Though there was an attempt to incorporate Wayanad Chamber of Commerce Infrastructure Company, it was foiled as there was another company by the name.
Another name under consideration is Western Ghats Development Limited. One of the key promoters of the venture, E.P. Mohandas, said they had also discussed the issue with Kozhikode district collector U.V. Jose, a former tourism director. “The two district collectors have extended their all out support,” he told DC. "Mobilising funds is not a big deal. We have queries in abundance from the investors worldwide. They would be finalised only after formation of the company and preparation of a detailed project report."
The forest department is not at all scared of the loss of little land as the group has already expressed readiness to compensate the loss of forest cover, around 10 acres, for erecting cable towers. Kozhikode divisional forest officer K.K. Sunilkumar said it would be easier to get the clearance from the top if any of the government departments like tourism involve in the project.
