Tourism – Gulmarg Cable Car Shutdown Ordered After Major Technical Failure
Tourism – Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have started a detailed investigation after a technical problem in the Gulmarg cable car network left hundreds of visitors suspended mid-air for several hours. Officials confirmed that the gondola service at the popular ski destination will remain closed for one week while engineers examine the cause of the malfunction and carry out safety inspections.
The incident took place on Monday when a gearbox problem disrupted operations in the cable car system, trapping nearly 320 tourists inside gondolas above the mountainous terrain. Rescue teams worked through difficult weather and steep slopes to safely bring all passengers back to the ground after an operation that lasted close to eight hours.
Government Begins Technical Review
Tourism director Syed Qamar Sajad said authorities acted quickly after the malfunction was detected. According to officials, engineers had two immediate choices: either attempt an on-site repair or replace the damaged gearbox with a spare unit available nearby.
Sajad explained that replacing the equipment could have taken between 12 and 24 hours, which would have significantly increased the waiting time for stranded passengers. Because of this, the administration decided to prioritise evacuation efforts instead of carrying out lengthy repair work during the emergency situation.
He added that a full technical assessment is now underway to determine the exact reason behind the failure. Engineering specialists and technical experts are expected to review the condition of the machinery and decide whether the gearbox should be permanently replaced.
Massive Rescue Operation Conducted
Soon after the breakdown was reported, multiple agencies joined hands to carry out a coordinated rescue mission. Teams from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army, Central agencies and the Cable Car Corporation were deployed to the site.
Rescue workers had to move across challenging mountain routes to reach the suspended gondolas. Officials said specialised safety equipment was used during the operation to ensure passengers could be evacuated without injuries. Authorities later confirmed that all tourists were brought down safely.
Eyewitnesses described tense moments as passengers remained stranded high above the ground for several hours. However, rescue personnel maintained constant communication with those trapped in the cabins to prevent panic and provide reassurance throughout the operation.
Safety Measures Under Examination
The Gulmarg gondola system is considered one of the main attractions in the region and draws thousands of domestic and international tourists each year, especially during the winter tourism season. The latest disruption has raised concerns regarding maintenance standards and emergency preparedness at the high-altitude facility.
Officials have stated that the temporary shutdown is necessary to ensure passenger safety before operations resume. Engineers are expected to conduct detailed inspections of the mechanical systems, including cables, power units and gearbox components.
Tourism authorities also indicated that future preventive measures may be introduced after the investigation report is completed. These could include additional technical checks, upgraded monitoring systems and revised emergency response procedures for operators and rescue teams.
Tourism Sector Watches Developments Closely
The temporary suspension of the cable car service may affect tourist movement in Gulmarg during the coming days, as the gondola ride remains one of the most visited attractions in the Kashmir valley. Travel operators are closely monitoring the situation while local businesses hope services can restart safely after inspections are completed.
Authorities have urged visitors not to panic and assured the public that safety remains the top priority. Officials also praised the coordinated efforts of rescue agencies, saying the operation helped avoid a more serious situation despite the difficult terrain and extended rescue duration.