Gulmarg crown jewel of J&K tourism landscape: CM Omar

Gulmarg, Dec 13: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said Gulmarg remains the crown jewel of Jammu and Kashmir tourism landscape and that sustained investment in modern, high-quality infrastructure was essential to unlocking its full potential.

“These initiatives are not just infrastructure additions but strategic investments that will create year-round tourism opportunities, generate employment for local youth and elevate Gulmarg to international standards,” CM Omar said after inaugurating Asia’s longest ski drag lift, measuring 726 metres, at Kongdoori at a cost of Rs 3.65 crore.

He dedicated a series of major tourism infrastructure projects worth over Rs 17 crore to the public at Gulmarg and its adjoining areas, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a premier global winter tourism destination.

The CM also inaugurated conservation works of a water body at Kongdoori, completed at a cost of Rs 90 lakh.

At Apharwat, he inaugurated the rotating conference hall, constructed by JKCCC at a cost of Rs 86 lakh, adding a unique attraction to Gulmarg’s high-altitude tourism infrastructure.

CM Omar laid the foundation stone for fencing of the Gulmarg Golf Course, a project worth Rs 4.77 crore, aimed at protecting and enhancing one of the region’s iconic tourism assets.

Through online inaugurations and foundation ceremonies, he also dedicated several important projects, including the office building of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) at a cost of Rs 82 lakh, reconstruction of Hut No 2 costing Rs 64 lakh, construction of the Devri path along the Alambal roadside at Rs 2.62 crore, and development of a dedicated car parking facility with an estimated cost of Rs 2.78 crore.

The CM also inaugurated the Integrated Skiing Training and Adventure Tourism Centre at Gulmarg and launched integrated ski training courses to strengthen professional winter sports training facilities.

These projects have been executed by the Gulmarg Development Authority and the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC).

Congratulating the Department of Tourism and JKCCC for the timely completion of these ambitious projects, CM Omar appreciated their professionalism and coordinated efforts.

He said the newly-inaugurated ski drag lift and training facilities would give a major boost to winter sports and professional skiing, while the revolving conference hall at Apharwat would significantly enhance visitor experience.

“Our vision is to make Gulmarg a global hub for winter sports while ensuring conservation of its fragile ecology and natural beauty,” the CM said.

Advisor to CM, Nasir Aslam Wani; MLA Gulmarg, Farooq Ahmad Shah; MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq; Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, Minga Sherpa; Director Tourism and Managing Director JKCCC, Syed Qamar Sajad; senior officers; tourism stakeholders and prominent tourism players from across Kashmir were present on the occasion.