Tourism deptt to start snow-skiing in Sonamarg
Posted on Dec 17, 2021 | Author Aatif Qayoom
Srinagar, Dec 16: To boost winter tourism, the Department of Tourism is mulling to start snow skiing at Sonamarg this winter, officials said on Thursday.
They said the knowledge about snow skiing and other sports activities will be imparted for the first time this year in the famous tourist place.
They added soon after the season’s first snowfall, the destination received huge tourist footfall.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Chief Executive Officer Sonamarg Mushtaq Ahmad Rather confirming the snow skiing in the tourist place said all the required measures have been put in place for winter tourism.
He said Jehlum Mountaineering Sport Gulmarg will organize the Snow Skiing in Sonamarg.
To a query CEO, Sonamarg said the concerned departments were directed to ensure that sufficient machinery and manpower are deployed for clearing of snow from Gagangeer to Sonamarg including car parking areas and inner roads in Sonamarg.
Earlier authorities said that Sonamarg will be opened for tourists in winters for the first time and said all arrangements will be put in place to provide hassle-free movement to tourists.
The Sonamarg used to remain closed in winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanches in the Gagangeer area and with the commissioning of Z-Morh Tunnel, the destination shall remain open for the first time in winter.
In October, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir PK Pole has also visited Sonamarg and said the government is committed to promoting Sonamarg as all season and preferred winter tourist destination.
Meanwhile, the locals of the area termed the move a positive sign and added this place was remaining closed for 4-5 months every year due to which their livelihood was getting affected.