Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday stressed the urgent need for artificial snow generation in Gulmarg, warning that climate variability poses a serious threat to traditional winter sports in the region.
Addressing the inauguration of the Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg, the Chief Minister welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of adapting to changing weather patterns. He noted that recent snowfall trends have become increasingly unpredictable, compelling authorities to rethink long-term infrastructure planning for winter sports.
Abdullah said the government is committed to developing Gulmarg as an international skiing destination and ensuring consistent sporting activity despite climate-related challenges. He underlined that relying solely on natural snowfall is no longer sustainable and called for the introduction of artificial snow generation systems to secure the future of winter games.
While acknowledging possible concerns over artificial snow projects, he said such measures are necessary to prevent the loss of tourism opportunities and protect the livelihoods of thousands of local stakeholders, including hoteliers, guides, transport operators, and small businesses dependent on the winter season.
The Chief Minister also assured full administrative support for athletes and sports infrastructure to nurture more international-level competitors from Jammu and Kashmir. Congratulating skier Arif Khan for bringing laurels to the region, he expressed hope that more talented athletes would emerge from the games.
He added that participation in sports is as important as winning medals and said sustained investment in winter sports and tourism would position Gulmarg among the world’s leading skiing destinations while ensuring economic stability for local communities.
