SRINAGAR: Operations of the Gulmarg Gondola, a major tourist attraction in Jammu and Kashmir, remain suspended with no immediate timeline for resumption, officials confirmed on Sunday.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the cable car service has been non-operational since May 25 due to a technical fault. Authorities are currently assessing the situation to determine when the service can safely recommence, impacting tourist plans and local tourism revenue.
Syed Qamar Sajjad, the Managing Director of the Gulmarg Gondola Project, stated that a final decision on resuming operations has not yet been made. He indicated that the process of refunding tickets for visitors who had booked the Gondola between May 25 and early June has commenced. This measure aims to mitigate the inconvenience caused to tourists by the unforeseen disruption.
The suspension followed a technical snag that developed within the system on May 25, leading to a critical situation where hundreds of tourists were temporarily stranded in the Gondola cabins. An immediate rescue operation was launched, involving the technical staff of the Gondola service and various emergency response agencies. This coordinated effort successfully evacuated over 300 tourists who were on board at the time of the incident. Officials reported that all passengers were brought down safely and without any injuries, averting a potential crisis.
The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable car projects in the world, is a significant draw for both domestic and international tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley. Its regular operation is vital for the region’s tourism economy, particularly during the peak seasons. The indefinite suspension, attributed to technical issues, has raised concerns among stakeholders in the tourism sector about its potential impact on visitor numbers and local businesses dependent on the attraction.
While the exact nature of the technical fault has not been publicly detailed, the focus remains on ensuring the complete safety and reliability of the system before it is allowed to resume service. The authorities have not provided an estimated date for the restoration of services, emphasizing that the decision will be guided by thorough technical evaluations and safety protocols. This uncertainty leaves tourists planning visits to Gulmarg with limited options for experiencing the panoramic views and adventure activities that the Gondola typically facilitates. The administration is working on a plan for the swift resolution of the technical issues, aiming to restore one of the valley’s premier tourist experiences as soon as possible.
The Chenab Times News Desk