A gondola project is not floated unless there is clearance from various agencies including the Forest Department. The question is that why did not the Forest Department draw the attention of the Gulmarg Development authorities or the Tourism Department authorities to the danger which some standing trees could pose for the ropeway when in operation during inclement weather. This one question shall have to be answered. The second question is that why gondola operators did not suspend the trip when they saw that very strong winds were blowing and the standing trees were trembling. Are they as inexperienced and careless as not to understand the impact of strong winds and how it uproots the trees? The onus comes to their doorsteps first. Thirdly, why did the authorities that gave final clearance to the operation of ropeway close to tall trees and did not order felling of the trees before the service was cleared. These questions shall have to be answered.
The Governor and the Chief Minister as well as the Tourism authorities have conveyed condolence to the members of the bereaved family. We join all sympathizers to express condolence to the bereaved families and their dependents. However, we would add a word of caution for the Tourism Department to shed lethargy and be pro-active in ensuring that the lives of tourists are safe and secure while they are on a visit to Kashmir failing which Kashmir tourism will get a bad name and will lose trust of tourists.
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