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