Gulmarg, May 8 (KNS) : Twenty-five tourists were stranded for over two hours atop Sunshine Peak in Gulmarg after a private helicopter on a joyride developed a technical snag, officials said. They were rescued in a joint operation by the Army and civil administration.

 

An official told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) the tourists, hailing from different parts of the country, were dropped at the scenic spot but the chopper failed to return to pick them up due to the glitch.

 

Soon after the incident came to light, the civil administration swung into action and coordinated with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army. On the directions of the SSP Baramulla, a rescue team was immediately dispatched to Phase 2 to remain ready for a possible foot march officials said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

However, Army helicopters managed to land at the spot, and all tourists were evacuated safely in a two-and-a-half-hour operation, officials said. All stranded tourists were brought down in a healthy condition.

 

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appreciated the prompt and coordinated efforts of the Army and the civil administration.

 

In a post on X, the Chief Minister's office said Abdullah has directed the administration to strengthen safety measures and ensure a secure experience for tourists to prevent recurrence of such incidents. (KNS)