Residents oppose rope car project at Marina, disrupt soil inspection

Residents disrupt soil inspection for the controversial Marina rope car project, raising concerns amid ongoing tensions and regulatory challenges.

The rope car project along Marina Beach has hit a roadblock, as residents have raised objection to the preliminary work for soil investigation.

A few days ago, a team of engineers halted work on drilling the beach sand to a depth of 60 feet for soil investigation, after the residents gathered to protest.

The engineers were forced to leave the Marina after they completed drilling at just one location near the Light House.

According to officials of the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), the tense situation that prevailed following the High Court order regulating beach vendors has caused confusion among the residents. The GCC hopes to implement the project after consultation with them.

In the run up to the Assembly election, the police have advised the civic body not to proceed with the soil investigation before sensitising the residentsabout the positive aspects of the project and its impact on tourism. The rope car is expected to attract tourists as it is intended to showcase the city’s heritage, including landmarks such as Chepauk Palace, as well as provide a scenic areal view of the beach. 

The work is expected to resume only after May, after the Assembly election and a round of public consultation.