SRINAGAR: The Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) has registered a total of 4,833 tourism service providers to manage the world-famous ski resort, while nearly 2,000 new applications remain on hold. The details were provided by the Minister in charge of the Tourism Department in response to a query by MLA Irfan Hafiz regarding the status of registrations and permissions.
The official data reveals that 1,771 pony wallas, 1,199 sledge pullers, and 930 tourist guides are currently registered and operational in Gulmarg. Other registered categories include 533 hawkers and photographers, and 400 dandi helpers or labourers. Despite the high demand, the government has kept 37 new pony walla applications, 38 sledge puller applications, and 984 tourist guide applications pending.
Authorities attributed the freeze on new registrations to the carrying capacity constraints of the Gulmarg bowl. The government maintained that the current number of service providers is considered adequate for the existing tourist inflow. The policy aims to prevent overcrowding, ensure environmental sustainability, and protect the livelihoods of those already registered by maintaining service quality.
In the category of hawkers and photographers, the department has adopted a phased approach. Out of 790 applications received, 366 have been approved, while 424 remain pending. This strategy is intended to avoid market saturation and ensure balanced growth within the resort’s jurisdiction.
Regarding mechanised tourism, the department has received 160 applications for the operation of ATVs and snow mobiles. Out of these, 130 have been processed or disposed of, while 30 remain under process. These vehicles are primarily procured through employment-linked schemes and entrepreneurship programmes.
To bolster the infrastructure required for such high volumes of tourists and service providers, the GDA is strengthening sanitation and waste management. A 2 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant, costing Rs 46.50 crore, is currently under preparation. The execution of this project is proposed to commence in the 2026-27 financial year to ensure the ecological preservation of the region.
