Irfan Yattoo/Umar Raina
The Kashmir Valley is experiencing significantly less snowfall this year, causing distress not only among the local population but also casting a shadow over the tourism sector. Residents in key tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg are voicing their concerns, pointing out the potential ripple effects on various aspects of life.
Sheikh Nayeem, a resident of Sonamarg, expressed his worries, stating that despite witnessing substantial snowfall during the 40-day long Chillai Kalan in Kashmir, the region is currently lacking the expected winter wonderland. He emphasized that the absence of substantial snowfall could lead to problems not only for agriculture and horticulture but also impact the economy and tourism.
Highlighting the dependence of the local economy on winter tourism, Nayeem explained, “Tourists come to Kashmir specifically for the snowfall experience. If Sonamarg doesn’t receive its usual snowfall, we not only face challenges in the tourism sector but also anticipate drinking water problems during the upcoming summers.”
Another local resident added that numerous tourists have already canceled their bookings due to the unexpected weather conditions, further dampening the prospects for the tourism industry in the region.
Dr. Ilyas Hussain, the (CEO) of the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA), acknowledged the unusual weather patterns but reassured the public. He stated, “While it’s a natural phenomenon that this year Sonamarg experienced less snowfall compared to previous years, the SDA is committed to promoting the winter tourism sector in the region. We will continue our efforts to attract visitors and mitigate the impact on the local economy.”
Meanwhile, Srinagar, Jan 17: Kashmir valley, known for its pristine snow-clad beauty, has taken an unexpected hit this winter, as the region experiences an unusual absence of snowfall.
The dearth of snow has cast a somber atmosphere over the once bustling tourist spots, leaving those dependent on the tourism sector grappling with the impact on their livelihoods.
Rafiq Ahmad, a tourist guide at Gulmarg told Rising Kashmir that in his 15 years of guiding tourists through the snowy wonders of Kashmir, he has never seen anything like this.
“The winter games, which were a major attraction, are non-existent this year due to the prolonged dry spell. It is disheartening for both tourists and those who earn their living from the influx of visitors during this season,” he added.
Mohammed Akram, a veteran tourist guide from Tangmarg says that snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes have been the highlight of our winter tours.
“Now, it feels like the heart of Kashmir is missing. The tourists come expecting a magical experience, and we guide them through a landscape that feels oddly incomplete without the snow,” he said.
Akram says our income is closely tied to the number of tourists who visit. Without the allure of the snowy landscape, we are witnessing a drastic drop in bookings, he added.
Local shopkeepers, who typically thrived on the brisk business brought by the winter crowds, are now facing a bleak reality.
Ghulam Hassan Malik, a shopkeeper at Kenzar Tangmarg says that his shop used to be filled with tourists purchasing snow gear, local handicrafts, and souvenirs. This year, it is eerily quiet. The snowfall not only added to the charm of the valley but also to our earnings,” he said.
“Without it, our businesses are struggling, and we fear the worst for the coming months,” Malik said, adding that snowfall was not just a spectacle; it was the soul of our tourism.
Even the local horsemen, whose well-trained horses would carry tourists through snow-covered trails, find themselves at a loss.
“Snowfall was not just a blessing for the tourists but for us as well. It meant a steady income and enough to sustain our families for the entire year,” shares Gulzar Bhat, a local horseman.
“Now, with no snow, our horses are idle, and we are left wondering how to make ends meet,” he added.
The snowless winter has sparked concerns not only among those directly involved in tourism but also among environmentalists and climate experts.
Meanwhile, Dr. Irfan Rashid, Senior Assistant Professor at the Department of Geoinformatics, University of Kashmir, said after 7 years, Kashmir is again experiencing a snowless winter. The snow in Chillaikalaan, the 40-day severest part of winter between 21 Dec and 29 Jan, is important for regulating glacier health and streamflows, he said.
“The dry winters would mean higher mass loss of glaciers in this hydrological year if the weather conditions do not improve and might impact hydropower generation, irrigation agriculture, and dependent sectors,” Dr Irfan said.
He said a few years back we reported that ski tourism might be affected in Kashmir given the climatic changes that the region is experiencing. People associated with winter tourism are facing the heat of it as we are now experiencing, Dr Irfan added.
