Aaqib Khan
Srinagar, Jun 25 (KNS): The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world's highest cable car projects, will resume commercial operations from Friday after remaining shut for nearly a month for extensive mechanical maintenance, officials said on Wednesday.
Director Tourism Kashmir and Managing Director of the J&K Cable Car Corporation, Syed Qamar Sajad, said all mandatory safety and technical tests had been completed before the reopening of the service.
"The gondola remained closed for a month. During this period, all mechanical tests, including integrity checks, load-bearing trials, cabin inspections and cable assessments, were carried out successfully," Sajad said.
He said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah personally undertook a ride on the gondola to assess its safety parameters before approving its reopening.
"Only after the Chief Minister's inspection and clearance were tourists allowed to use the facility. Commercial operations will begin from Thursday," Sajad said.
Sajad said the Chief Minister also announced a reward of Rs 50,000 each for members of the rescue team of the J&K Cable Car Corporation for their role during emergency operations following a technical snag in May.
He added that appointment orders were handed over to six contractual employees, while arrears amounting to Rs 28 lakh were also released.
Praising the staff of the corporation, Sajad said employees had demonstrated commitment during maintenance work and rescue operations.
On the issue of casual labourers, he said their regularisation was discussed at the corporation's board meeting and that the government would take a decision on the matter.
"We are committed to supporting our workforce and providing them with all possible assistance," he said.
The gondola service was suspended on May 25 after a technical fault and adverse weather conditions disrupted operations, leaving several tourists stranded in cabins before they were rescued safely. The facility is among Kashmir's major tourist attractions and draws thousands of visitors annually.(KNS)