Syed Qamar Sajad’s Leadership Boosts Gulmarg Gondola, Sparks Calls for Expansion
Since Syed Qamar Sajad assumed the role of Managing Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC), the Gulmarg Gondola has undergone a remarkable transformation, ensuring no tourist or local leaves disappointed. His innovative reforms, including the introduction of a tatkal ticketing system, have made the iconic cable car ride—one of Asia’s highest—more accessible and enjoyable, addressing previous challenges with online booking that often left visitors stranded.
Under Sajad’s dynamic leadership, the Gondola hit a historic milestone on March 24, 2025, recording a single-day revenue of Rs 80 lakh—nearly double its typical Rs 40-50 lakh. This surge reflects improved crowd management, efficient ticketing, and heightened visitor satisfaction, driving unprecedented demand. The tatkal system, allowing on-the-spot ticket purchases, has been hailed as a game-changer, ensuring broader access to the scenic ride offering stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
The Gulmarg Gondola’s success has not only boosted revenue but also set a model for tourism development in Jammu and Kashmir. With its financial and operational achievements, experts and stakeholders are now advocating for similar Gondola projects in Bangus Valley, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg—regions brimming with tourism potential. These proposed initiatives could mirror Gulmarg’s success, further elevating J&K’s status as a top-tier tourist destination and bolstering the region’s economy.
Sajad’s tenure has turned the Gulmarg Gondola into a symbol of effective management and visitor-focused innovation, paving the way for a new era in J&K’s tourism landscape.
