The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), Jammu and Kashmir Chapter, held a detailed meeting with Mr. Syed Qamar Sajad, JKAS, the newly appointed Managing Director of JK Cable Car Corporation. The discussions focused on key issues concerning the Gulmarg Gondola cable car, particularly the availability of tickets, especially for foreign tourists.
During the meeting, Mr. Sajad assured that special arrangements would be made to streamline the ticketing process for foreign tourists. He stated that travel agents can email the corporation with the details of foreign tourists, and tickets will be provided well in advance, at least one day before the scheduled travel date, to address same-day ticketing challenges. He also assured that tickets could be arranged at the last minute to accommodate foreign tourists, recognizing their significance as once-in-a-lifetime visitors to Kashmir and the importance of extending full hospitality to them.
It was proposed that a special quota for local travel agents be introduced online, along with a dedicated login system exclusively for travel agents from Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative would enable local agents to secure tickets more efficiently, safeguarding their businesses. The measure was deemed essential as local agents face difficulties in selling packages without guaranteed gondola tickets.
The meeting also explored strategies to enhance the Gulmarg Gondola’s capacity to accommodate more visitors. A proposal was put forward to introduce gondolas at alternative locations, such as Doodhpathri and Sonamarg, on a fast-track basis to reduce the strain on the Gulmarg Gondola.
Furthermore, discussions were held on promoting the Makhdoom Sahib Gondola in Srinagar as a significant tourist attraction. It was suggested that the gondola’s top phase be extended beyond the shrine to the fort, making it more appealing. Mr. Sajad assured full support for introducing new attractions at Makhdoom Sahib Gondola and committed to enhancing its overall appeal to tourists.
The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between tourism stakeholders and the JK Cable Car Corporation to address challenges and ensure an improved experience for visitors to Jammu and Kashmir.
