Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary today visited Gulmarg to assess the rescue operations launched after a technical snag disrupted the functioning of the Gondola service. Despite difficult terrain and slippery conditions caused by continuous movement along steep slopes, the Deputy Chief Minister personally visited the rescue sites and appreciated the dedication and professionalism displayed by the rescue teams under the challenging circumstances.
During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the on-ground situation and inspected the Gondola base station, cabins and related infrastructure. He directed the concerned authorities to ensure that all necessary safety protocols are strictly adhered to and stressed the need for early restoration of services for the convenience of tourists and locals.
Interacting with the tourists and officials on the spot, the Deputy Chief Minister lauded the coordinated efforts of the Civil Administration, Police, Army, Disaster Response Force (DRF), local guides and other agencies involved in the rescue operation.
“On the directions of the Chief Minister, I personally supervised the ongoing rescue operation and I am happy to say that all the stranded tourists have been rescued safely,” he said. The Deputy Chief Minister said that the prompt response and close coordination among all agencies ensured the safe evacuation of every passenger.
He reiterated that the safety and well-being of tourists remains the government’s top priority. “Tourists are our valued guests and every possible effort was made to ensure their safe rescue. I am thankful that all the passengers are safe and the rescue operation has concluded successfully,” he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister further assured that a detailed report regarding the incident would be submitted to the Chief Minister, following which appropriate measures would be taken to ascertain the cause of the technical snag and prevent recurrence of such incidents in future. Senior officers from Civil, police and army were also present.