Gulmarg, Apr 24 (KNO): In a strong message of resilience and unity, over 15,000 tourists took the iconic Gulmarg Gondola ride in the last 48 hours, days after the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam claimed 26 lives.
Amid shock and grief, the Valley is witnessing a return of faith from travellers, with many of whom continue to enjoy the beauty and warmth that Kashmir is known for.
Official data accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), revealed that over 15,000 tourists availed the Gondola ride in the past 48 hours including 7,299 on Wednesday and 7,616 on Thursday.
“10,398 tourists took the Gondola Phase-I ride while 4,517 went up through Phase-II,” the data revealed.
Meanwhile, the tourists, while praising the region’s safety, hospitality and the proactive support from both locals and authorities, said that the incident at Pahalgam was indeed unfortunate, but what they have seen on the ground is completely different from what some media reports suggest.
As a gesture of goodwill, tourists at the Gondola base station were served traditional Kashmiri Kahwa, which many described as touching and thoughtful.
Officials say these efforts are a reflection of the Valley’s determination to uphold its legacy of hospitality, even in times of sorrow.
Anita, a tourist from Delhi said that they have been treated with warmth, served Kahwa, and made to feel safe and welcome. “This is the Kashmir we always heard about — kind, welcoming and beautiful. The locals and security personnel have been outstanding,” she said.
“We never felt any sense of fear or threat,” another tourist said.
Managing Director of Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation, Syed Qamar Sajjad, acknowledged the spirit of the visiting tourists. “We are grateful they haven’t lost faith. The surge in Gondola rides is proof that tourism in Kashmir cannot be derailed by acts like Pahalgam,” he told KNO.
He said their teams, security forces and locals are working together to ensure that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories.
The top JKCCC official also announced the introduction of relaxation in its refund policy, to further support tourists.
“Full refunds will be issued for all no-show or un-scanned tickets, with visit date from April 22 to 30, additionally, full refunds will also apply to all online cancellations initiated during the same period,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a parallel initiative aimed at ensuring smooth and secure travel for visitors, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir has established a dedicated 24x7 tourist helpline to assist those currently in the Valley or intending to visit in the coming days.
According to an official communiqué, the tourists can reach out to the divisional-level helpline through the following round-the-clock contact numbers: +911942-740003, 8899931010, and 8899941010.
To further enhance regional assistance, area-wise contact persons have also been designated to provide on-ground support. These include: Mr. Rahul Raina at the Tourist Reception Centre Srinagar – 9596311771, Ms. Mehnaz Khan, Srinagar – 9622484772, Mr. Irfan Bini – 9419013335, Mr. Sandeep Pandita, Srinagar International Airport – 6005892772, Mr. Rafiq Ahmad – 7006154329, Mr. Gohar Rafiee, for Mughal Road status (Shopian) – 7006580763 and Mr. Shafaqat Itoo, Budgam/Doodpathri – 7006823575.
For broader regional facilitation, tourists can also contact: South Kashmir (Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian & Pulwama) – 9906663868 and Central Kashmir (Srinagar, Budgam & Ganderbal) – 9906906115.
The help desk will operate under the overall supervision of Director Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob Farooq, ensuring coordination at every level to make tourists feel welcomed, supported, and safe during their stay in the Valley.
This move comes in the wake of heightened concerns following the recent Pahalgam incident and is part of broader efforts to reassure and facilitate tourists—(KNO)