Srinagar: Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday honored volunteers for their critical role in the rescue of tourists stranded during a technical snag at the Gulmarg Gondola. Abdullah stated that the contributions of these individuals were largely overlooked by the media, and he sought to provide them with due recognition.
The incident, which occurred on May 25, 2026, saw over 300 tourists trapped in gondola cabins for several hours after a technical fault disrupted operations. A massive multi-agency rescue operation was launched, involving the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, NDRF, SDRF, and local administration. While official rescue teams successfully evacuated the stranded tourists, Abdullah highlighted the crucial, albeit underreported, efforts of local volunteers who assisted in the initial stages of the rescue.
Abdullah announced a reward of Rs 50,000 for each Gulmarg Gondola Project employee who participated in the rescue, acknowledging their dedication during the emergency. Furthermore, he stated that six cable car employees involved in the operation would have their employment regularized, with more workers to be regularized in a phased manner. This initiative aims to recognize and reward those who demonstrated exemplary commitment during the crisis.
The Gulmarg Gondola, one of Asia’s highest cable car systems, experienced the technical fault around 1:20 p.m. on May 25, 2026. The snag left approximately 65 cabins suspended mid-air, some at heights reaching nearly 500 feet above the ground. The situation created panic among the tourists, including families with women and children, especially as inclement weather conditions, including strong winds and rain, began to lash the region.
The coordinated rescue operation lasted for over seven hours. While the official agencies successfully brought all stranded passengers to safety without any injuries, Abdullah emphasized the vital role played by the local volunteers and rescuers who initiated the evacuation process before the arrival of the Army and police. He expressed gratitude for their swift and professional response in a challenging situation.
The Jammu and Kashmir government, under Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the time of the incident, closely monitored the rescue efforts. Following the event, an inquiry was initiated into the technical fault to ascertain the cause and fix responsibility for any lapses. The government reiterated its commitment to the safety and well-being of tourists, who are a significant driver of the region’s economy.
The Gulmarg Gondola is a major tourist attraction, linking the ski resort town with Kongdoori and Apharwat Peak. In 2023, it served over 10 lakh tourists, with a similar number recorded in 2024, highlighting its importance to local tourism. The incident underscored the need for robust safety protocols and quick response mechanisms in high-altitude tourist infrastructure.
The Chenab Times News Desk