NIA Approves Cable-Car Project in J&K’s Pahalgam After Terror Attack

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has approved the much-anticipated cable-car project in Pahalgam’s Baisaran area, Jammu and Kashmir, marking a significant step toward restoring normalcy and boosting tourism months after a deadly terror attack that claimed 26 lives. The ₹100–120 crore project aims to revive local tourism and strengthen the region’s infrastructure within an estimated completion time of 18 months.

Project Overview and Development Plans

According to officials, the Pahalgam cable-car project will connect the lower terminal near Yatri Niwas to the upper terminal in Baisaran through a 1.4-kilometre aerial route. The Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) has finalised tenders and awarded the consultancy contract to Ronmas India Pvt. Ltd. for preparing a detailed project report and technical documentation. The J&K tourism department confirmed that all approvals have been secured, including the NIA’s clearance from the investigation angle.

Background: Post-Attack Recovery Efforts

The project comes in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, carried out by the Lashkar-linked outfit The Resistance Front (TRF). The attackers targeted tourists after inquiring about their religion, resulting in 26 deaths and triggering nationwide outrage. In response, Indian security forces conducted retaliatory strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Ministry of Home Affairs has since appointed a special public prosecutor to oversee the trial, while the NIA continues to investigate the case, having questioned over 1,000 individuals so far.

Government and Local Response

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that the cable-car alignment has been identified, and the executing agency is awaiting final clearance for site surveys. Pahalgam MLA Altaf Ahmad Wani acknowledged delays due to the “post-Pahalgam scenario,” but expressed confidence that the project will help revive employment and tourism. The state’s tourism department has coordinated with the deputy commissioner of Anantnag to facilitate site visits and expedite construction.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The NIA approved the ₹100–120 crore Pahalgam cable-car project in November 2025.
• The project will cover 1.4 km from Yatri Niwas to Baisaran, executed by JKCCC and Ronmas India Pvt. Ltd.
• 26 tourists were killed in the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack by The Resistance Front (TRF).
• The work is targeted for completion within 18 months to boost tourism and local economy.

Tourism Revival and Security Coordination

Authorities believe the project will serve as a symbol of resilience for the Kashmir Valley, encouraging safe tourism and creating job opportunities. The collaboration between the NIA, the tourism department, and JKCCC highlights a renewed focus on economic recovery and infrastructural growth in regions affected by militancy.