Srinagar, Apr 24 (UNI) The operation of Gondola Cable Car (GCC) operating between Gulmarg to worlds highest skiing point Apharwat remained suspended for the third day today.

Besides disappointing hundreds of tourists who had come from all parts of the country and abroad, the GCC corporation was suffering a loss of Rs four lakh per day due to non-functioning of the car.

We still do not know when the GCC will be made operational again,'' an official told UNI over phone from Gulmarg.

He said repair work on the damaged portion of the wire has been started on a war footing.

The spokesman said due to heavy lightning on April 21 at 1820 hurs at Kongdori, electronic electric control system was damaged.

The lightning also damaged inspection hut, he said adding the operation of the cable car will remain suspended till further notice.

He said local engineers were on the job to repair the damaged system.

However, he said, the a team of engineers from Mumbai are coming to check and overhaul the entire system. They have nothing to do with the repair of the damage caused by the lightning, he added.

Official sources said all the cars of the Gondola grounded at the base camp.

Hundreds of tourists, who had come from different parts of the country and abroad expressed their disappointment.

The local hotel owners said if anything was not done immediately it will affect the future bookings.

UNI BAS QAB LS AS1547