Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday inaugurated Asia’s longest ski drag lift, measuring 726 metres, at the ski resort of Gulmarg in Baramulla district.

The project is part of a series of major tourism infrastructure initiatives worth over Rs 17 crore that the Chief Minister dedicated to the public in Gulmarg and its adjoining areas.

Officials said the projects mark a significant step towards strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a leading global winter tourism destination by improving facilities for skiers and visitors.

An official spokesman said the Chief Minister inaugurated Asia’s longest ski drag lift, measuring 726 metres, at Kongdoori at a cost of Rs 3.65 crore. He also inaugurated conservation works of a water body at Kongdoori, completed at a cost of Rs 0.90 crore.

At Apharwat, the Chief Minister inaugurated the rotating conference hall, constructed at a cost of Rs 0.86 crore, adding a unique attraction to Gulmarg’s high-altitude tourism infrastructure.

The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for fencing of the Gulmarg Golf Course, a project worth Rs 4.77 crore, aimed at protecting and enhancing one of the region’s iconic tourism assets.

Through online inaugurations and foundation ceremonies, he also dedicated several important projects, including the office building of the Gulmarg Development Authority at a cost of Rs 0.82 crore, reconstruction of Hut No. 2 costing Rs 0.64 crore, construction of the Devri path along the Alambal roadside at Rs 2.62 crore, and development of a dedicated car parking facility with an estimated cost of Rs 2.78 crore.

In addition, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Integrated Skiing Training & Adventure Tourism Centre at Gulmarg and launched integrated ski training courses to strengthen professional winter sports training facilities. These projects have been executed by the Gulmarg Development Authority and the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC).

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Minister said Gulmarg remains the crown jewel of Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism landscape and that sustained investment in modern, high-quality infrastructure is essential to unlocking its full potential.

“These initiatives are not just infrastructure additions but strategic investments that will create year-round tourism opportunities, generate employment for local youth and elevate Gulmarg to international standards,” he said.

Congratulating the Department of Tourism and JKCCC for the timely completion of these ambitious projects, the Chief Minister appreciated their professionalism and coordinated efforts.

He said the newly inaugurated ski drag lift and training facilities would give a major boost to winter sports and professional skiing, while the revolving conference hall at Apharwat would significantly enhance visitor experience.

“Our vision is to make Gulmarg a global hub for winter sports while ensuring conservation of its fragile ecology and natural beauty,” he added.