Gulmarg, Feb 23 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday stressed the urgent need to shift from natural snowfall to artificial snow generation to secure the future of winter sports and tourism in the Kashmir, warning that over-reliance on weather patterns could render destinations like Gulmarg unskiable in the coming years.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) here, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the unusual weather conditions affecting the event.
“Last month, we witnessed heavy snowfall, but we did not realize that by the time the Khelo India Winter Games began, there would be so much scorching sun and heat that it might not be easy for you to ski,” CM Abdullah remarked, highlighting the unpredictability of the weather.
Citing the ongoing Winter Olympics in Italy, the Chief Minister congratulated Indian skier Arif Khan, a product of Jammu and Kashmir, for representing the country on the global stage. He expressed hope that the KIWG would produce “a new Arif Khan.”
CM Omar pointed to India’s disappointing medal-less streak in the Asian and Olympic Winter Games, attributing it to a lack of adequate infrastructure. “It is the duty of people like us to provide you with the infrastructure, facilities, coaching, and training required to compete at the international level,” he said.
Taking a critical view of the event’s scheduling, CM Omar urged the organizers to introduce flexibility. “Do not fix a date months in advance. Hold the Games 10 to 15 days after a good snowfall so we can ensure the right kind of slopes and conditions,” he suggested.
Emphasizing a policy shift, he declared that the era of relying solely on natural snow was over. “We cannot just trust God anymore. We have to move toward artificial snow generation. If we do not create that infrastructure, I am sorry to say, a day will come when we won’t be able to ski in Gulmarg at all,” he warned.
Acknowledging environmental concerns regarding water and electricity usage for artificial snow, Abdullah maintained that such investments were crucial not only for athletes but also for the thousands dependent on tourism, including sledge wallahs, ski guides, and instructors.
“Where we prepare equipment for sports, we must make a concerted effort to boost tourism as well,” he added.
The Chief Minister further added athletes from across the country, wishing them success in the spirit of participation over victory.
Comments are closed.