Mismanagement at Gulmarg’s Gondola entry point a cause of concern: TASK

Srinagar, Mar 28: The Travel Agents Society of Kashmir (TASK) has expressed serious concerns regarding the chaotic scenes unfolding outside the gondola entry points at Gulmarg, where a lack of proper queue management and oversight has left both tourists and local visitors struggling amid a frustrating experience.

In a statement, TASK President Muhammad Ibrahim Siah emphasized the detrimental impact of the current situation on Kashmir’s tourism industry. “It is a blot on the tourism sector that tourists, after spending their hard-earned money to visit Kashmir, are confronted with this chaotic environment. Many wish to enjoy the gondola ride, having paid for their tickets online, only to find themselves pushed and thrown in disarray,” Siah commented.

“This humiliation affects everyone, including children and elderly individuals. It gives our tourism sector a bad name.”

Siah further highlighted that local travel operators have previously raised complaints regarding the ticketing system. “TASK has been vocal in advocating for local tour and travel operators to be given priority in this system. It’s essential that the voices of those who understand the local tourism landscape are heard and considered,” he stated.

The Gondola ride, one of the most sought-after attractions in Kashmir, is being hampered by poor management practices, prompting TASK to call for immediate action.

“The Tourism Department of Kashmir, the Gulmarg Development Authority, and the Cable Car Corporation must wake up to the realities on the ground and implement effective measures to restore order,” Siah urged.

General Secretary Waseem Gosani echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that such negligence could tarnish the reputation of Kashmir’s tourism sector. “The Gondola ride is a major attraction in Kashmir, and if tourists continue to face such mismanagement, it will impact the overall tourism industry negatively,” he said.

TASK has urged the administration to immediately deploy adequate staff to manage the rush, enforce a proper queuing system, and ensure crowd control measures to prevent any untoward incidents. The tourism fraternity has also appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) and other relevant authorities to take stock of the situation before it escalates into a disaster.

“There should be a proper mechanism in place to ensure a smooth experience for all visitors.”

In light of these pressing issues, TASK appeals to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene directly and address the concerns of both tourists and local stakeholders. “We urge the Chief Minister to direct relevant authorities to ensure that a structured and efficient system is established at the gondola entry points. Our goal is to enhance the visitor experience and maintain Kashmir’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.”