Leh, Feb 20: Amidst heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures plunging to -15°C, more than 120 runners from seven countries braved the elements to participate in the second edition of the Pangong Frozen Lake Marathon, the world’s highest frozen lake marathon.
Organized by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh, in collaboration with the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh and the 14 Corps of the Indian Army, the event featured two categories of runs: a challenging 21 km and a shorter 10 km race.
Ravinder Kumar, Secretary of Sports, graced the event as the chief guest, alongside Konchok Stanzin, Councillor of Chushul Constituency. The marathon aimed not only to promote winter tourism in the region, particularly in Changthang, but also to raise awareness about the alarming rate of Himalayan glacier melting attributed to global warming.
Named the “Astrun,” organizers warned that this could potentially be the last run on the frozen Pangong Lake due to the effects of climate change. Participants, including locals from Pangong areas such as Maan, Merak, Spangmik, and Phobrang, were treated to cultural performances showcasing the rich heritage of the region.
“The run was conducted at an altitude of 14,273 ft, making it one of the toughest marathons globally,” stated an official spokesperson. With climate change threatening the very existence of the frozen lake, the Pangong Frozen Lake Marathon served not only as a test of endurance but also as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for climate action in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
