CM OMAR ABDULLAH LEADS RESUMPTION OF GULMARG GONDOLA OPERATIONS, ANNOUNCES REWARD FOR RESTORATION CREW

BuzzBytes News Network GULMARG, JUNE 25, 2026
In a significant boost to the region’s tourism sector, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today officially oversaw the resumption of the Gulmarg Gondola service, marking the full restoration of operations following a temporary suspension earlier this year. The Chief Minister personally took a ride to Phase-I at Kongdoori, where he conducted an on-site inspection of the system and reviewed the extensive restoration works undertaken in the aftermath of a recent technical malfunction.
The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the country’s premier tourist attractions and a vital economic lifeline for the region, had been temporarily shut down following a technical glitch in May that necessitated urgent repairs and comprehensive safety checks. During his visit, officials from the J&K Cable Car Corporation briefed the Chief Minister on the technical specifics of the restoration process and the stringent safety audits that were conducted before the service was cleared for public use.
Expressing his appreciation for the dedication of the entire corporation staff, the Chief Minister lauded their round-the-clock efforts in restoring this critical infrastructure project within a remarkably short span of time. In recognition of their exceptional service, Mr. Abdullah announced a reward of ₹50,000 for each official and crew member who participated in the swift relief and rescue operations during the technical glitch in May.
“This infrastructure is not just a mode of transport; it is the backbone of our tourism economy in Gulmarg,” the Chief Minister stated during his interaction with the media. “I am immensely proud of the team that worked tirelessly under challenging conditions to ensure that the Gondola is not only operational but also meets the highest safety standards. Their dedication deserves this recognition.”
The Chief Minister was accompanied during the visit by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Gulmarg Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Senior Superintendent of Police Baramulla, Managing Director of the J&K Cable Car Corporation Syed Qamar Sajad, the CEO of the Gulmarg Development Authority, and other senior officers.
The resumption of Gondola services is expected to provide a major fillip to the tourism industry in Kashmir, which has been gradually recovering and attracting domestic and international visitors. Local hoteliers and tourism stakeholders have welcomed the development, expressing hope that the full restoration of the iconic cable car service will lead to a surge in tourist footfall during the upcoming summer season.
The Gulmarg Gondola, which holds the distinction of being one of the highest cable car systems in the world, offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas and is a major draw for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The technical malfunction in May had raised concerns about the reliability of the ageing system, but officials have now assured the public that all necessary upgrades and safety measures have been implemented.
As the gondola cabins once again began their ascent to Kongdoori, cheers erupted from the gathered crowd of tourists and locals, signalling a new chapter of normalcy and optimism for the picturesque hill station.