Cebu City dad proposes cable cars to solve traffic

Local

A CEBU City councilor has proposed introducing cable cars to alleviate traffic and improve connectivity by providing an alternative travel option for airport-bound passengers.

Rey Gealon, who also chairs the Traffic Management Council (TMC), has urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to implement a cable car system as an intermodal transportation solution.

The proposed cable cars would connect Mandaue City and Lapu-Lapu City, addressing severe traffic problems and offering a scenic travel experience. The Cebu City Council approved the proposal on August 21, 2024.

Gealon stated that cable cars could reduce traffic congestion in dense urban areas by providing an alternative mode of transportation. He added that because cable cars do not operate on streets, they avoid contributing to street overcrowding. This, he noted, could reduce congestion, lower carbon emissions, and promote sustainable urban development.

Countries such as Switzerland and France have successfully used cable cars to navigate geographical obstacles and provide picturesque travel experiences. Similarly, Colombia has used cable cars to connect remote areas and address urban transportation challenges.

Previously, suspended Mayor Michael Rama proposed an aerial ropeway transit (ART) system in 2023. Rama envisioned a cable car route leading to Sudlon 1 and planned to integrate it with his broader transportation projects.

Gealon acknowledged the challenges associated with cable cars, including high installation costs and potential weather-related disruptions. He suggested designing durable systems to withstand extreme weather and implementing strict repair schedules to minimize outages.

The cable car proposal aligns with the government's broader push to enhance regional connectivity and decongest roads, alongside major projects such as the Metro Manila Subway and North-South Commuter Railway.(MyTVCebu)