SRINAGAR, India (HornPost) — Nearly 300 people were left stranded in the air after a technical failure halted the Gulmarg Gondola cable car system in Indian-administered Kashmir.
The sudden stoppage left passengers suspended above mountainous terrain, raising fears among tourists and other visitors. Emergency teams rushed to the area and began rescue operations.
Officials deployed ropes, ladders and specialist mountaineering equipment to bring passengers safely back to the ground.
Authorities said rescue teams were using all available resources to evacuate those trapped inside the cable cars. No casualties had been reported at the time of the initial reports.
An investigation is also underway to determine what caused the technical failure.
Rescue Teams Begin Emergency Evacuation
The cable car stopped unexpectedly while carrying passengers across the mountainous landscape. The incident caused alarm among those onboard and prompted an immediate emergency response.
Rescue personnel worked to reach the stranded passengers and bring them down safely. The operation required specialist equipment because of the gondola’s height and the difficult mountain terrain.
Authorities have not yet provided a detailed account of the technical problem. They also have not confirmed how long the rescue operation would take.
Gulmarg Gondola Is a Major Tourist Attraction
The Gulmarg Gondola is one of Kashmir’s most popular tourist attractions. It carries visitors across the high-altitude mountains surrounding the resort town of Gulmarg.
The cable car system serves tourists, skiers and visitors seeking access to the region’s snow-covered mountain slopes. It is also widely recognised as one of the world’s highest and longest cable car systems.
Its route crosses steep valleys and mountainous terrain. The system relies on steel cables and specialised mechanical equipment to transport passengers between stations.
Technical Failure Raises Safety Concerns
Technical faults and adverse weather can sometimes disrupt cable car operations in mountainous areas. However, an interruption involving hundreds of passengers highlights the importance of regular maintenance and emergency preparedness.
Authorities are expected to examine the cause of the malfunction. The findings could help determine whether mechanical failure or another technical issue triggered the stoppage.
The immediate priority remains the safe evacuation of all stranded passengers.
HornPost Staff
Hargeisa News Desk
