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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday applauded the rescue of more than 300 tourists stranded in the Gulmarg's popular cable car of the famous tourist spots after a sudden technical snag. The prompt action “shows the promptness, professionalism, courage and coordination” of India's disaster response bodies, he said.

Approximately 300 tourists hosed down in 65 cabins were stranded for several hours on May 25, 2026, during a cloudy day with light rain. The operation was launched immediately by a huge multi-agency response by the Indian Army - Chinar Corps, Jammu & Kashmir Police, SDRF, NDRF, and the local administration.

The teams successfully finished the high altitude evacuation using ropes, ladders and harnesses in approximately 6-8 hours without an injury. By nightfall, all tourists were safely transported down.

The whole incident reflects the level of preparedness and synergy in the approach towards addressing emergencies in the difficult terrain of Jammu and Kashmir and has been appreciated by all across the country.