Cable Cars: Why they should be part of a comprehensive urban transport solution

The technology of aerial urban cable cars is growing exponentially in Latin America and has promise in Asia and the Pacific.

SCJ Alliance was retained by ADB to identify ways aerial cable cars can be part of a comprehensive transport solution in the urban areas of Asia and the Pacific. Aerial cable cars have a proven track record in Latin America and show promise in Asia and the Pacific. With the ability to overcome the challenges of varying terrain, rapid growth, infrastructure density and congestion at a fraction of the cost and in much less time than traditional transport solutions, aerial cable cars offer a unique solution.

Aerial cable cars are a cable-propelled transit (CPT) technology that moves people in motorless, engineless vehicles propelled by a steel cable. Traditionally known for their role on ski hills and in recreational resort settings, this technology has evolved into an urban transportation option. Worldwide, CPT systems are being integrated into public transportation networks. CPT systems are a useful tool in a transit planner’s toolbox. CPT can’t solve every transit problem, but offers a solution for medium-capacity and difficult-to-implement urban segments. Relatively easy to implement, and with the capacity to move up to 10,000 people per hour, CPT systems can offer a solution to the first- and last-kilometer challenge. CPT systems can extend existing transport systems when traditional transport technologies would otherwise be too expensive, challenging or time-consuming.

Follow us on twitter: adbtransport