Tangmarg: Drivers from the Valley working with tourists in Tangmarg staged a silent protest, demanding free entry to the Gulmarg Gondola, a key attraction for visitors in the region.
Over a hundred drivers from the Tangmarg constituency gathered to voice their grievances, claiming that Gondola employees deny them entry alongside tourists, affecting their ability to earn a livelihood.
President of the Valley Drivers Association, Irshad Ahmed Lone, highlighted that most members of the association are highly educated but have turned to tourism-related work due to the lack of government jobs. Licensed by the Tourism Department under the Valley Drivers License scheme, these drivers assist tourists but are not provided free tickets to accompany visitors on the Gondola.
“This treatment is demoralizing for educated youth who are trying to sustain themselves through tourism. The lack of support is jeopardizing our livelihoods,” said Lone.
The association urged the Director of Tourism and the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to intervene and address their demands. The protesters called for immediate action to ensure free entry for licensed drivers into the Gondola, enabling them to continue supporting themselves through tourism activities.
