SRINAGAR, Oct 27 — The Jammu and Kashmir government has said that work on the proposed Gondola project in Pahalgam has been suspended pending clearance from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is examining security concerns following a recent terror attack in the area.
Tourism Minister informed the Assembly that the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) had completed tendering and signed an agreement with a consultant for preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and related technical studies before the project was halted.
“The process came to a halt after restrictions were imposed following the Pahalgam terror attack,” the minister said. “The alignment for the 1.4-kilometre ropeway has already been identified, with the lower terminal point near Yatri Niwas and the upper terminal point at Baisaran.”
He noted that around 9.13 hectares of land belonging to the Forest Department have been earmarked for the project, estimated to cost between ₹100 crore and ₹120 crore.
According to the minister, the executing agency has sought permission to carry out topographical and geo-technical studies at the project site. “The matter has been taken up with the Deputy Commissioner, Anantnag, who has conveyed that it is under consideration with the NIA,” he said.
He added that work will commence immediately after the NIA grants its nod. “Once clearance is received, the project is expected to be completed within 18 months,” the minister noted.
