GDA pushes technology-driven tourism management, eco-friendly infrastructure in Gulmarg

Baramulla, May 18: With tourist arrivals witnessing a steady rise at the world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg, the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) is increasingly focusing on technology-driven tourism management, regulation of tourism-related trade and environmentally sustainable infrastructure to manage the growing influx of visitors.

Speaking to media persons in Gulmarg, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Gulmarg Development Authority, Tariq Hussain, said the premier tourist destination has emerged as one of the country’s preferred travel destinations and continues to gain national recognition for its scenic beauty, tourism facilities and hospitality.

“Gulmarg has carved a strong identity for itself across the country in terms of tourism and tourist preference. We are hopeful that the number of visitors will continue to increase in the coming seasons,” he said.

Hussain said the growth of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir holds significance not only from an economic perspective but also in strengthening confidence, connectivity and cultural integration between the Union Territory and the rest of the country.

He said both the Jammu and Kashmir administration and the Central Government are making sustained efforts to further expand and strengthen the tourism sector in the region.

Highlighting the administration’s focus areas, the CEO said efforts are underway to ensure a safer environment for tourists, regulate tourism-related trade and introduce modern, technology-based services for visitors.

“As part of these initiatives, plans are underway to develop a mobile application that will provide tourists with information and facilitation services directly on their phones,” he said, adding that the move is aimed at improving convenience for visitors and streamlining tourism-related services.

“We are a technologically advanced country today. By using technology, we want to become digitally stronger in tourism management as well,” Hussain added.

Describing tourism management as a “joint responsibility,” he said cooperation between the administration, tourism stakeholders and local traders was essential for maintaining Gulmarg’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.

He said Gulmarg’s major attractions, including the famous golf course, the Gulmarg Gondola cable car project, convention facilities and private tourism infrastructure, continue to serve as the resort’s major strengths and attractions for visitors.

“At the same time, there is a need for discipline within the tourism sector. We must preserve the long-standing reputation of hospitality for which this region is known,” he said.

The CEO stressed that sanitation, cleanliness, greenery and preservation of forests remain critical to sustaining Gulmarg’s tourism potential and ecological balance.

“Gulmarg’s tourism potential is rooted entirely in its natural environment. Protecting that environment is essential for the future of tourism here,” he said.

Hussain also said Kashmir’s comparatively cool climate could emerge as a major attraction for tourists seeking respite from the intense heatwave conditions prevailing in several parts of the country.

“If it is hot in other parts of the country, visitors can experience a completely different climate here. Gulmarg offers a natural atmosphere and cooling environment unlike the artificial cooling systems used in cities,” he said.