Unveiling the Monorail Mishap: Ulsan's Environmental Setback
In the heart of Ulsan's Sinnbulsan Mountain, a natural haven known for its peculiar rock formations and breathtaking scenery, an ambitious venture took shape five years ago—a monorail installation. However, what started as a promising addition to the 'Yeongnam Alps' turned into a costly misstep.
On its inaugural run, the monorail broke down, stranding passengers on the mountain. With no guidance, they descended the steep path, holding onto greasy monorail tracks. Since that fateful day, the monorail has remained silent, its tracks rusting away.
The Forest Service, which invested $2 billion in the installation, won a lawsuit against the negligent contractor, but the contractor's bankruptcy left them empty-handed. Facing the dilemma of reinstallation costs running into billions of won, the Forest Service opted for demolition, incurring an estimated cost of at least 400 million won.
Critics argue that monorails in natural settings are not only expensive and unsightly but also pose environmental risks. They highlight the increasing damage to natural ecosystems and the decline in biodiversity, emphasizing the need for responsible choices in balancing development and environmental preservation.
As debates continue over the role of monorails in enhancing tourism versus their impact on nature, the tale of Ulsan's monorail serves as a cautionary reminder of the delicate balance required when introducing modern amenities into pristine environments.
The Rise and Fall of Ulsan's Monorail: A Costly Misstep in Nature's Wonderland
[FAQ] Q1: What happened to the monorail in Ulsan's Sinnbulsan Mountain?
A1: The monorail, installed five years ago for 2 billion won, broke down after one run, leading to its eventual demolition at a cost of hundreds of millions of won in taxes.
Q2: Why was the decision made to demolish the monorail instead of reinstalling it?
A2: Despite winning a lawsuit against the contractor for shoddy workmanship, the Forest Service faced financial constraints due to the contractor's bankruptcy. Reinstallation would require billions of won in taxpayer money, leading to the decision to demolish.
Q3: What are the arguments against monorails in natural recreation areas?
A3: Critics argue that monorails are expensive to build, aesthetically unpleasing, and can lead to side effects such as damage to the natural environment.
#EnvironmentalMisstep, #UlsanMonorail, #NaturePreservation, #EcoFriendlyTourism, #PublicInfrastructureCaution
