CM Omar hails efforts
Srinagar, May 08: In a joint rescue operation Army, J&K Police and administration on Friday rescued 24 tourists who got stranded at Sunshine Peak in Gulmarg after a civil helicopter they were travelling in developed a technical snag.
Officials told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the rescue mission was carried out jointly by the Indian Army, Baramulla district administration, Gulmarg Development Authority and Jammu and Kashmir Police.
They said Army aviators responded immediately after receiving information about the incident and safely evacuated all the stranded tourists from the peak. The operation was completed successfully without injury to tourists, they said.
In a statement, the Army said its personnel acted swiftly to ensure timely evacuation and reiterated its commitment towards safeguarding civilians during emergencies.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appreciated the coordinated rescue operation carried out by the Army and civil administration after tourists were stranded in the higher reaches of Gulmarg.
The Chief Minister, Omar said the prompt response by the Army and district administration ensured the safe rescue of all stranded tourists.
He also directed the administration to take all necessary measures to further strengthen safety protocols and ensure a secure experience for tourists visiting the Valley.
He stressed the need to prevent the recurrence of such incidents and asked the concerned authorities to review existing safety mechanisms related to tourist activities in high altitude areas of Gulmarg. (KNO)
