Tourists Trapped Mid-Air in Gulmarg Cable Car Scare, Massive Rescue Operation Launched

Gulmarg Gondola Halt Leaves Tourists Hanging Mid-Air, Emergency Teams Rush for Rescue

A tense situation emerged at the popular Gulmarg tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir after tourists became stranded inside suspended cable cars following an unexpected operational failure in the gondola system.

Officials confirmed that rescue operations were immediately launched after several cabins reportedly stopped midway during routine movement. The incident triggered concern among visitors and local authorities, especially because the Gulmarg Gondola is one of the world’s highest cable car systems and attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Technical snag suspected behind sudden stoppage

Preliminary reports suggest the disruption may have been caused by a technical malfunction or temporary power-related issue. Authorities quickly suspended further rides and initiated emergency safety procedures to safely evacuate passengers.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as tourists remained trapped for an extended period while rescue personnel coordinated evacuation efforts from the ground and nearby towers.

Some passengers reportedly used mobile phones to contact family members and share visuals from inside the stationary cabins.

Rescue teams deployed immediately

Local administration officials, police personnel, and technical staff were deployed to the site soon after the incident was reported. Rescue experts began working to restore movement in the gondola system while also preparing manual evacuation options if required.

Authorities stated that passenger safety remained the highest priority and assured that all tourists would be evacuated carefully.

Medical teams and emergency responders were also kept on standby near the boarding area.

Gulmarg remains one of Kashmir’s top attractions

Located in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg is among India’s most visited hill destinations, especially known for skiing, snow tourism, and its famous gondola rides.

The Gulmarg Gondola operates in multiple phases and carries tourists across scenic mountain slopes throughout the year.

Incidents involving suspension or emergency stoppages are relatively rare, making the latest disruption a major talking point among tourists and travel operators.

Social media flooded with reactions

Videos and photographs from the site quickly surfaced online, showing cabins hanging motionless above mountainous terrain. Social media users expressed concern for stranded tourists while praising rescue workers for responding rapidly.

Many travellers also raised questions regarding maintenance protocols and safety checks for high-altitude tourism infrastructure.