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In a significant stride towards enhancing tourism and accessibility, the Dominican government has announced plans to commence the construction of the world’s longest cable car project later this year. Anticipated to begin in November, the US$54 million venture is poised to transform the travel experience to Dominica’s iconic Boiling Lake, the second-largest of its kind globally, nestled in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated east of the capital.
Tourism Minister Denise Charles expressed optimism, saying, “I am hoping with the hurricane season (due to begin on Wednesday), we have no disasters, no storms, no major hurricanes, we can start actual construction in November of this year.” The project involves the installation of a Detachable Monocable Cable Car spanning an impressive 6.6 kilometers.
The Boiling Lake, a natural wonder, is a flooded fumarole resulting from volcanic activity in the Valley of Desolation. Currently accessible only through a challenging 6-hour trek, the cable car project aims to provide a safe and expedited passage to this breathtaking site.
Dominica has the second-largest boiling lake in the world
Charles emphasized the strategic importance of the endeavor for Dominica’s tourism sector, stating, “This project is very critical because as you know Dominica has the second-largest boiling lake in the world or the first largest in the western hemisphere. So this project will certainly feature Dominica as a major tourist destination as many people will be excited to come and visit the second-largest boiling lake in the world.”
The ambitious project is a collaboration between the government and ABL Holdings, with the government holding a 15 percent stake. Charles outlined the current progress, stating, “Currently we are in the first phase. They have done consultations with the people of the Roseau Valley. We are expected to do a second round soon and we are also conducting the feasibility studies, including the environmental impact studies for this project and finalizing negotiations with landowners.”
The minister highlighted the anticipated economic benefits, stating, “Things are looking great. This will certainly bring greater economic activity…and as a result, you expect to see many more people visit the Boiling Lake. They will need tour operators.” The government is hopeful that the construction of the project will commence later this year.
Dominica’s cable-car ride will be the longest in the world
Upon completion, Dominica is poised to surpass Vietnam, currently holding the record for the world’s longest cable car with its 5.8 kilometers of ropeway. The cable car project not only promises enhanced accessibility to a natural marvel but also positions Dominica as a premier tourist destination on the global stage.
Photo Credit: doppelmayr.com