A massive rescue operation involving the Police, Army, State Disaster Response Force, civil administration and gondola operators is underway at the world-famous Gulmarg Gondola after a technical fault left dozens of cable car cabins stranded mid-air on Monday.
Officials said the snag developed in the Gondola system at Phase 1, leading to the suspension of operations on both Phase 1 and Phase 2 routes. Authorities clarified that the incident was not weather-related and that all cabins remained structurally intact.
According to officials, around 62 to 65 cabins were stranded after the fault occurred.
Rescue teams launched a large-scale evacuation operation immediately, with trained personnel from the Indian Army, SDRF and Police working jointly at the site.
The Office of J&K Lieutenant Governor stated that the administration is closely monitoring the situation and that Director General of Police has been directed to proceed to the site to supervise rescue measures.
“Joint rescue team of Police, Army & SDRF & DC, SSP is conducting the operation to ensure the safety of all tourists, “ the office of LG said.
The Office of Chief Minister also said the government is closely monitoring the situation and that trained teams are carrying out evacuations in a systematic manner.
Authorities reiterated that there is no cause for panic and described the situation as “completely under control.”
The Army said swift and coordinated rescue efforts are in progress with assistance from Gondola operators.
Officials said nearly 80 passengers from 16 cabins had been safely evacuated till evening, while operations for the remaining stranded tourists continued.
The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world’s highest cable car projects, operates in two phases.
The base station at Gulmarg is located at an altitude of 8,694 feet, while Phase 1 at Kongdori stands at 10,006 feet and Phase 2 at Affarwat reaches 12,959 feet above sea level.
The locals were also seen assisting authorities during the operation.
