Nepal is planning to permit cable car construction in protected areas to boost tourism and accessibility, raising environmental concerns among conservationists.
Original article written by: Abhaya Raj Joshi
Nepal’s Ministry of Forest and Environment is drafting regulations to permit the construction of cable car ropeways in protected areas, including national parks. Under current laws, such developments are prohibited. However, the proposed regulation aims to allow these projects if they provide a more eco-friendly and wildlife-friendly alternative to traditional transportation methods or improve accessibility to religious and tourist destinations.
The draft regulation outlines specific conditions for approval, such as ensuring the base or final station of the cable car lies outside protected areas on private land. Additionally, developers will only be permitted to construct essential infrastructure for the ropeway’s functionality. Annual fees for these projects will depend on the ropeway's length, ranging from $13,500 for shorter routes to $37,500 for longer ones.
This proposal follows a series of government decisions, including a controversial directive allowing large-scale hydropower plants in protected zones. Conservationists argue that these projects could lead to habitat destruction, wildlife fragmentation, and long-term environmental damage. Despite legal challenges in the past, the private sector remains keen on investing in ropeway tourism, with multiple proposals already under review.
While proponents highlight the potential for economic growth and improved accessibility, critics stress the importance of prioritizing environmental sustainability and stricter oversight to prevent ecological harm.