The serene heights of the Galiat region are set to take a temporary break from their most famous mechanical ascent. The Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP) has officially announced that the well-known Patriata Chairlift and Cable Car system will be subject to annual mandatory maintenance. The facility will be closed beginning March 6, 2026, to ensure that the rigorous safety standards required for high-altitude transport are strictly adhered to. This strategic pause is timed to coincide with the latter half of the holy month of Ramadan, allowing technical teams to conduct thorough overhauls without disrupting the peak tourist influx expected during the summer.
The Patriata Chairlift, or “New Murree” skyway, is Pakistan’s longest and most sophisticated cable car system. The journey spans 3.25 kilometres and is divided into two distinct phases: an open chairlift that transports passengers from the base station at Ghulehrra Gali to a middle station, followed by a sleek cable car ride to the summit of Thakri Hill. This summit stands at an impressive height of approximately 7,500 feet above sea level. Because of the region’s technical complexity and environmental demands, regular maintenance is more than a formality; it is an absolute necessity.
Operational Timeline and Ramadan Schedule
According to the official schedule released by the corporation, the operational halt is effectively enforced from the 16th of Ramadan through to the first day of Eid-ul-Fitr. During this window, all public access to the chairlift and cable car cabins is strictly prohibited. Travellers who are planning excursions to the Murree hills during the mid-to-late weeks of March are being advised by the TDCP to adjust their itineraries accordingly. While the scenic trails and local markets of Patriata remain accessible, the aerial journey that provides the area’s most breathtaking views will remain unavailable until the festive conclusion of the month.
The restoration of services is anticipated for the second day of Eid-ul-Fitr. By this time, the completion of all mechanical inspections and safety certifications is expected. This reopening is strategically planned to cater to the massive crowds that traditionally flock to the hill stations during the Eid holidays. The corporation has emphasized that the safety of tourists is the primary driver behind this closure, ensuring that when the “flying experience” resumes, it does so with renewed reliability and efficiency.
The maintenance process is a multi-layered operation involving both local engineers and, traditionally, consultations with international technical partners. Since its inauguration in 1990, the system has been subject to periodic upgrades. The current phase of work is intended to cover the inspection of the main hauling cables, the lubrication of the pulley systems at each pylon, and a thorough vetting of the electrical control units. In the past, significant investments have been made—including a dedicated electricity line and the introduction of canopied chairs—to protect riders from the harsh mountain elements.
It is reported by TDCP officials that these annual breaks are essential for the longevity of the infrastructure. Given that the facility generates substantial revenue and supports the livelihoods of hundreds of local traders and service providers, maintaining the highest level of operational integrity is paramount. Tourists are being reminded that these measures are implemented to prevent any mechanical failures during the high-demand seasons of summer and winter, when the lift often runs at its maximum capacity.
For those who find themselves in Patriata while the cables are silent, the region still offers a wealth of natural beauty. The drive through the Murree Expressway remains one of the most scenic routes in the country, leading travellers through dense pine forests and misty valleys. While the chairlift is decommissioned for the month, the hiking trails leading toward the Thakri Hilltop remain open for the more adventurous soul. Local hospitality continues to thrive, with various resorts and eateries in the vicinity remaining operational to serve the Ramadan needs of visitors and locals alike.
Furthermore, the Murree District Administration has recently introduced modern safety measures, including an AI-powered safety app, to assist tourists in navigating the area. Visitors are encouraged to utilize these digital tools to stay informed about road conditions and weather forecasts. It is suggested that tourists focus on alternative attractions such as the Mall Road in Murree, the historical Pindi Point, or the serene walks of Nathia Gali while the Patriata facility undergoes its annual “spring cleaning”.
Source: Travel and Tour World
