Khelo India winter games postponed amid snow shortage in Gulmarg

Srinagar, Feb 17: The much-anticipated 5th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG), originally scheduled to take place in Gulmarg from February 22 to 25, has been postponed due to insufficient snowfall, officials said on Monday.
The event, expected to attract hundreds of athletes, including 650 technical staff and local participants, was set to feature four major snow sports: ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic skiing. Winter Games Association of Jammu and Kashmir, explained that the primary reason for the delay was the lack of adequate snow coverage on key slopes such as Affarwat and Bowl. “Unless Gulmarg receives fresh snowfall, hosting the event will not be feasible,” Tramboo stated, noting that typically, these slopes accumulate seven to eight feet of snow during winter, which is essential for the competition.
While the event’s postponement is disappointing for the athletes and organizers, it has also raised concerns among the service providers in Gulmarg, a popular tourist destination known for its skiing resorts. Hoteliers, transporters, and local businesses are facing significant uncertainty. Gulmarg’s hospitality sector, which heavily depends on both winter tourism and events like Khelo India, has been hit hard by the lack of snow this season. Hotel owners have expressed concern about low bookings and the subsequent financial losses. “We were hoping the games would bring in a good number of visitors, but now with the postponement, there is little activity in the area,” said a local hotel manager. Similarly, transport operators are struggling, as winter tourists have dwindled with the absence of snow.
Experts fear that the dry spell in Kashmir, compounded by a 79% rainfall deficit, could have long-term effects on the region’s economy. With temperatures soaring 12 degrees above normal this February, many crops are being affected, and numerous springs, including one at the historic Achabal Garden, have already dried up.