KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 24 — The government will proceed with the stalled cable car project at Sri Maha Mariamman Temple at Batu Caves, according to MIC president Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam.
He said the public transport facility was essential to allow senior citizens, members of the disabled community and tourists to visit the highest cave at Batu Caves without having to climb the 272 steps.
“We want to build the cable car but there had been some constraints in getting approval from the Selayang Municipal Council (MPS); we accept MPS’ decision in regard to the ecosystem and environment.
“But at the same time we will continue to discuss with MPS and the relevant parties,” he told a media conference after launching the Thaipusam celebrations here today.
Also present were MIC deputy president Datuk Seri S.K Devamany and Malaysia’s special Infrastructure envoy to India and South Asia, Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu.
The 250-metre cable car is one of two stalled major projects proposed for the vicinity that MPS had frowned on.
In 2011, an agreement of understanding was signed between the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple management and Damodar Ropeways and Constructions Pty Ltd to build the cable car facility.
Construction of the RM10 million project was to have been completed in 2014 but MPS halted it on June 6 that year after finding that some structures that were built in the area had not obtained planning approval.
The second stalled major project was the Indian Cultural Centre.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak had on Feb 7, 2012 announced an initial allocation of RM2 million for the centre that was expected to draw more tourists to Batu Caves.
Meanwhile, other proposed projects in the vicinity of the temple that failed to get off the ground were public amenities near the riverside where religious ceremonies are normally held and a fourth staircase.
The projects had not obtained MPS’ approval despite getting support from the federal government.
On the Thaipusam celebrations this year, Dr Subramaniam said it is the 126th to be held at Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, which is among the major venues where devotees congregate annually.
In the last 10 days, about 1.4 million Hindu devotees had come to the temple to perform their religious obligations, he said. — Bernama
