Phu Kradueng cable car project is on the move despite decades of debate, after memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed.
With the environmental impact assessment (EIA) expected by mid-year, the cable car is tentatively set for completion in 2028.
Two MoUs were signed on Friday by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), together with the Faculty of Architecture of Chulalongkorn University, to support the systematic development of tourism areas and academic research in Phu Kradueng National Park.
Department chief Attapol Charoenchansa said the EIA, being conducted by the Faculty of Architecture for the 4km-long cable car, is expected to be completed by mid-year.
He said the project must strictly comply with all laws and regulations and have the lowest possible environmental impact, noting that the cable car proposal has been controversial for more than 30 years.
He expressed confidence that the EIA would not face objections from environmental groups, adding that the project would proceed once the report is approved.
Commenting on Pha Mark Dook cliff being selected as a possible site for a cable car tower, he said it was only one option but the most suitable because it would not affect trekking routes or obstruct scenic views.
He added that even if the cable car is built, Phu Kradueng National Park will still be subject to seasonal closure to allow natural rehabilitation.
Meanwhile, DASTA director Siripakorn Cheawsamoot said the agency is responsible for designing the cable car system, which is expected to use a mono-cable detachable gondola with 32 cabins to transport passengers and waste between the base and the summit.
The system is designed to carry up to 368 passengers per hour, or about 3,680 per day, and will operate around 240 days a year between October and May.
