Annapurna Cable Car has clarified that its cable car service in Sarangkot, Pokhara, remains safe and operational, following reports that the service was disrupted for nearly an hour after passengers became trapped in a lift at the facility. In a public statement, the company said it had taken serious note of recent reports published by an online media outlet and clarified that the technical issue occurred in a lift inside the station, which is a separate system from the passenger cable car service. The company said linking the temporary lift malfunction to the safety or operation of the entire cable car system could create unnecessary confusion and concern among tourists and the general public.
Lift and Cable Car Are Separate Systems
Annapurna Cable Car emphasised that the lift located within the station and the cable car used to transport passengers are two entirely different systems. According to the company, a technical problem in the station lift does not mean there is a problem with the safety or operation of the cable car system. The clarification comes after reports about passengers being temporarily stuck in the lift were interpreted as an interruption or safety issue involving the cable car service itself.
Passengers Safely Rescued From Lift
The company acknowledged that a technical problem occurred in the lift on the day in question, temporarily leaving some passengers inside. However, the company said its staff and technicians responded immediately and opened the lift doors, allowing all passengers to exit safely. No human casualties were reported in the incident, the company said. It added that the incident was not ignored and that necessary attention is being given to technical inspection, maintenance, and service management to prevent similar problems from recurring.
Alternative Access Available at Top Station
Annapurna Cable Car said alternative arrangements are available for movement at the top station in Sarangkot. Passengers can access the station through stairs if the lift is temporarily unavailable. Therefore, the company said, the lift-related issue should not be interpreted as a complete shutdown of the cable car service or as a situation in which passengers are unable to move between different areas of the station. The company maintained that its cable car service continues to operate regularly.
Passenger Safety Remains Top Priority
The company acknowledged that temporary technical issues can occasionally occur in modern tourism infrastructure and said the key priority is to identify and resolve such issues promptly while ensuring passenger safety. “Passenger safety, service continuity and quality experience have always been our priorities,” the company said. It also pledged to increase technical inspections, maintenance and service management to minimise the possibility of similar incidents in the future.
Company Urges Tourists Not to Be Discouraged
Annapurna Cable Car urged domestic and international tourists not to consider the temporary lift malfunction as an indication that the entire cable car service is unsafe. The company highlighted Sarangkot as one of Pokhara’s major tourism attractions, offering visitors views of 16 Himalayan peaks, the scenic Phewa Lake, spectacular sunrises and sunsets, as well as other cultural and natural attractions. Sarangkot is also home to a 51-foot-tall Panchamukhi Ganesh statue, adding to its religious and cultural significance. According to the company, Annapurna Cable Car is committed to making access to these attractions more convenient, enjoyable and memorable for visitors.
Annapurna Cable Car Invites Visitors
Annapurna Cable Car has invited domestic and international tourists, families, friends and visitors to continue visiting Sarangkot and using its cable car service to experience the natural beauty of Pokhara. The company also expressed gratitude to passengers, well-wishers and visitors for their continued trust and support, while reiterating its commitment to passenger safety and reliable service.
