What began as a fun sightseeing experience quickly turned tense when Gulmarg’s famous gondola cable car service developed a technical snag mid-air. 300 tourists were left stranded, prompting authorities to launch a large-scale rescue operation to evacuate them safely. According to the latest updates, the cable car service has been suspended following the malfunction. Scroll on to know more.
Tech Snag Hits Gulmarg Gondola Service
According to India Today, a technical fault disrupted Gulmarg’s famous gondola service, prompting a large-scale rescue operation after 300 tourists were left stranded mid-air. The breakdown brought several cabins to a halt high above the ground, leaving passengers distressed and anxious.
Government is closely monitoring the situation at the Gulmarg Gondola after the cable car service was temporarily halted due to a technical fault. All cabins remain intact and rescue operations to safely evacuate stranded tourists are underway with trained teams on the ground.…
— Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) May 25, 2026
Eyewitnesses said several tourists were seen crying and pleading for help as the system remained suspended for some time. While initial reports hinted that overloading may have caused the snag, authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the malfunction.
The incident took place during peak operating hours, leading to the immediate suspension of both Phase I, from Gulmarg base to Kongdori, and Phase II, which ascends to Afarwat Peak at 3,950 metres. Officials said the ropeway’s automated safety system instantly froze the cable alignment after detecting the fault in Phase I to prevent any further risk.
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All Tourists Safely Rescued
Hindustan Times reported that a joint rescue operation was launched by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), army, and CRPF to safely evacuate all tourists from Gulmarg gondola. Reports suggest that it was a suspected system overload that freezed Asia’s highest cable car.
Emergency protocols were activated and thanks to the quick response, all passengers were successfully brought down without any reported injuries. As per the latest update, all cabins remain intact and restoration work on the cable car system is currently underway.
More information on this is awaited.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@Farhat_naik_
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Why is the Gulmarg Gondola famous?
It is known for its breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, valleys, and its access to skiing and trekking spots.
How high does the Gulmarg Gondola go?
The second phase reaches Apharwat Peak, at an altitude of around 3,950 metres above sea level.
Is the Gulmarg Gondola safe?
Yes, the gondola follows strict safety protocols and is equipped with automated safety systems. However, on May 25, operations were suspended due technical issues.