Srinagar, Sep 30 (NationPress) The renowned Gulmarg Gondola has officially resumed its commercial operations today following the successful completion of essential trials concerning cable, cabin, and load-bearing tests for this iconic cable car project.

Officials confirmed, “All safety checks were completed seamlessly prior to the recommencement of commercial activities.”

The restart of operations in Phase I comes with an upgraded carrying capacity, ensuring visitors enjoy a more comfortable and efficient journey on one of the globe's highest and most frequented ropeways.

Authorities have extended a cordial invitation to tourists and adventure enthusiasts, encouraging them to explore the services of the Gulmarg Gondola, which plays a significant role in enhancing the region's tourism appeal.

The operations of the Gulmarg Gondola were temporarily halted from September 22 to September 29 for its annual mandatory inspection and maintenance, with normal operations reinstated on September 30.

This routine annual closure allows qualified engineers to perform comprehensive checks and maintenance of the mechanical and electrical systems, ensuring the cable car's safety and optimal performance in line with international benchmarks.

The Gulmarg Gondola ranks as the second-longest and second-highest cable car globally.

Higher rankings are held by the Mi Teleferico in Bolivia and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in China.

This two-stage gondola lift transports approximately 600 passengers per hour to and from Kongdoori Mountain, a peak adjacent to Apharwat Peak (4,260 m (13,976 ft)).

The ropeway project is a collaborative effort between the Jammu and Kashmir government and the French company Pomagalski.

The initial stage transports visitors from the Gulmarg resort at 2,650 m (8,694 ft) to Kongdoori Station in the bowl-shaped Kongdori valley.

The second stage, featuring 36 cabins and 18 towers, elevates skiers to a height of 3,980 m (13,058 ft) on Kongdoori Mountain, a peak near Afarwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)).

This second stage was completed in a remarkable timeframe of around two years at a cost of Rs 18 crore, officially opening on May 28, 2005.

The French firm also constructed the first phase of the gondola project, linking Gulmarg to Kongdoori, in 1998.

The gondola operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., subject to weather conditions at both stages.

A gondola cable car accommodates six passengers at once, taking approximately nine minutes to reach the first stage and 12 minutes for the second stage.