Mismanagement at Gondola entry point brings disrepute to tourism sector: KCCI

Srinagar, Mar 27: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has expressed concerns about the severe mismanagement and chaotic conditions at the Gondola entry points in Gulmarg, emphasising the urgent need for comprehensive administrative intervention.

In a statement, the chamber said that KCCI has taken up the issue with key government officials, including the Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah highlighting the deteriorating situation that threatens both tourist experience and safety.

The current state of management at the Gondola entry point has reached an unacceptable level, with tourists experiencing significant challenges in accessing this premier tourist attraction. The lack of a structured queue management system has created an environment of complete administrative breakdown, raising serious concerns about operational efficiency and visitor safety.

KCCI has identified multiple critical issues plaguing the Gondola operations. These include a complete lack of clear administrative responsibilities among Cable Car Management, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Local Police, and Gulmarg Development Corporation. The resultant administrative ambiguity has led to a systematic breakdown of order and management, the statement said.

"Of particular concern are the unethical practices reported by KCCI members, involving aggressive ponywallahs, unscrupulous guides, Sledge, ATV operators, transport operators and Gondola ticket touts who systematically exploit tourists. These practices not only harm individual visitors but also significantly damage Kashmir's reputation as a premier tourist destination."

The current ticketing system requires immediate and comprehensive restructuring. KCCI strongly recommends prioritising local travel agents in ticket allocation and implementing stringent measures to prevent bulk ticketing by non-local operators.

"Drawing comparisons with international standards with ropeway projects across India, KCCI points out that Gondola operations maintain impeccable management, safety, and customer service standards. The current scenario in Gulmarg falls drastically short of these benchmarks, presenting potential risks for tourists and its maintenance is of poor standards," the KCCI said in a statement.

The Chamber demands that the lawlessness and mismanagement at the Gulmarg Gondola site and areas falling under the Gulmarg Development Authority demand immediate attention. The potential for a catastrophic incident is real and imminent, necessitating swift and decisive action.

KCCI is calling for the immediate implementation of clear management protocols, stringent crowd control measures, management of services and comprehensive tourist service frameworks.