Waris Fayaz
Gulmarg, Dec 18: Gulmarg known as the best skiing destination in the world for its powdery snow is expected to see massive arrival of visitors this winter.
Assistant Director Tourism, Gulmarg, Javeed Ahmed said that above 15 lakh tourists visited the alpine meadow till November and the count is expected to reach 16 lakh by the year end. Last year, 15.5 lakh tourists visited Gulmarg, he added.
This year, according to him, 1097983 domestic tourists, 395873 locals and 9750 foreigners visited Gulmarg.
As of now, an average 4000 people visited the destination on a daily basis but the daily numbers will see a significant increase from now onwards till July, Javeed said.
The increased number has created job opportunities in various sectors including hospitality, transportation besides adventure tourism. Waseem Ahmed Bhat, an adventure tour operator expressed satisfaction over the tourist influx.
Meanwhile, to avoid any inconvenience to visitors due to slippery road conditions caused by snow, the authorities have urged travellers to equip their vehicles with anti-skid chains.
Syed Altaf Hussain, Sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Tangmarg/Gulmarg said that keeping in view the weather and road conditions, commuters heading towards the Gulmarg should equip their vehicles with the anti-skid chains in order to prevent skidding on icy or slippery roads, minimizing the risk of accidents.
The SDM also urged the visitors to refrain from parking their vehicles along roadsides and should avail the parking facility at Tangmarg. “We have enough space and can accommodate a good number of vehicles at the facility to enhance traffic flow and overall experience for the visitors”, he said.
The safety of residents and visitors is our top priority, especially in winters when roads are unpredictable, said Hussain.
