Ganderbal, Dec 12: Sonamarg, a major winter attraction in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, is fully prepared to welcome tourists as the region awaits the season’s first major snowfall. The Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) said all necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and vibrant winter tourism season. Speaking exclusively to Rising Kashmir, Chief Executive Officer (SDA), Bilal Mukhtar, said that the administration has carried out all essential arrangements well in advance. “Everything is already in place. We are now waiting for snowfall so that tourists can come and enjoy the snow,” he said. He said that following a review meeting chaired by the Deputy Commissioner two weeks ago, all line departments—Food & Civil Supplies, PHE/Jal Shakti, and PDD—were directed to ensure uninterrupted services throughout winter, especially in Sonamarg and its adjoining villages. Mukhtar said the Tourism Department and Youth Services & Sports have been tasked with preparing a comprehensive winter activity calendar for Sonamarg and Gulmarg. "The aim is to publicise the schedule in advance so tourists know when and where events will be held," he said. “We hope for good snowfall soon. Once that happens, winter activities here will begin immediately." The CEO said that with the Sonamarg Tunnel functional, the region has now become a reliable all-weather destination. “Earlier, vehicles would skid, and access was difficult. But the tunnel has changed that, making winter travel safer and hassle-free,” he said. An expert team recently surveyed Sonamarg’s slopes to assess their suitability for skiing. Contrary to earlier belief that the area was fit only for basic-level skiing, the team concluded that intermediate and advanced courses are also possible. Mukhtar said that a three-member committee—comprising the Deputy Commissioner, MD Cable Car Corporation, and CEO SDA—recently submitted a detailed proposal to the government outlining immediate and long-term development plans for Sonamarg. In a significant development, the Hoteliers Association of Sonamarg has announced a 50% discount on centrally heated rooms for winter visitors. “We have 1,250 centrally heated rooms. Offering a 50% discount is a major goodwill gesture from our hoteliers,” Mukhtar said, adding that every stakeholder is committed to reviving winter tourism. The SDA has intensified cleanliness drives from the Hung area up to Nilgrath. Waste from hotels and market areas is being transported to the Sarbal STP and solid waste treatment plant for scientific disposal. The CEO said he personally keeps track of feedback from locals and addresses issues promptly. The Divisional Commissioner recently chaired a meeting to review winter preparedness, during which SSP Traffic was directed to deploy additional manpower and machinery during snowfall. Vehicles without anti-skid chains will not be permitted beyond designated checkpoints, while all parking spaces will be strictly regulated to ensure smooth vehicular movement. Mukhtar revealed that once completed, the SDA will be outsourcing the children’s park to generate revenue for the government. Additionally, see-through fencing along key stretches will be installed soon. Following damage caused by cloudbursts and landslides earlier this year—particularly at the Fish Point area—the SDA has sought funds from the government for repair and renovation. “With all preparations complete, we are ready to welcome tourists with open arms,” the CEO said. “All stakeholders—SDA, hoteliers, traders, ponywalas, and media—are eagerly waiting. We are hopeful for a good tourist footfall this winter.