New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has given its approval to the Jammu and Kashmir government for the cable car project in Baisaran, located in the tourist resort of Pahalgam , the site of the tragic April 22 terror attack that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists. The Jammu and Kashmir government had sought the NIA's views on the project, which is still under investigation by the agency. NIA officials stated, "We were asked about our views (about starting the cable car project) and we conveyed that we do not have any objection from the investigation angle."

The government explained in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly that the project work has been allotted to a company but has not begun "in view of the post-Pahalgam scenario." The 1.4-km cable car alignment, identified by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC), stretches from near Yatri Niwas in Pahalgam to Baisaran. The project requires around 9.13 hectares of forest land.

Tenders for consultancy and preparation of a detailed project report were floated and finalised. The work was assigned to Ronmas India Pvt. Ltd., and an agreement has been signed. However, due to the post-attack situation, the agency has not yet commenced the assignment. The executing agency has sought permission for site visits to conduct topographical and geotechnical studies. The matter has been taken up with the Deputy Commissioner of Anantnag, who advised approaching the NIA for clearance.

According to the Tourism Department, the project, estimated to cost Rs 100-120 crore, will be completed within the shortest possible time frame of 18 months once all permissions, including security clearances, have been obtained. The cable car aims to boost tourism and economic activity in the region, helping with recovery after the terror attack.

Thus, while progress has been made in planning and approvals, the project remains on hold pending full clearances and reassurances from investigative and forest authorities.

With inputs from PTI