CM Omar Abdullah sees Sonamarg as next Gulmarg

Gulmarg, Jan 12: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Sunday said that Sonamarg tourist destination would become a winter sports destination like Gulmarg in the next 5 years.

Talking to reporters at Gulmarg ski resort, the CM said that efforts would be made to ensure Sonamarg tourist resort would turn into a winter sports destination in 5 years.

“I will try my best to ensure that in the next 5 years, Sonamarg also becomes like Gulmarg and becomes another winter sports destination,” he said.

Terming tourism the ‘backbone’ of J&K’s economy, CM Omar said that more tourists mean more earnings for the people whether they are ski guides, ski instructors, sledge operators, ATV and snowmobile operators, or small businesses like restaurants and dhabas.

“Today I am here to record a programme so that it helps in the promotion of this famous tourist destination,” he said.

About Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Monday visit, the CM said that all arrangements had been put in place in connection with PM Modi’s Kashmir visit.

The PM will visit Sonamarg in Ganderbal district on Monday to inaugurate the 6.5-km Z-Morh Tunnel.

CM Omar said that the Khelo India Winter Games would be held in Gulmarg in February this year, and the union territory is preparing to host the event.

“We still have some time before the Khelo India Winter Games. I hope there will be more snow before that,” he said.

On whether Gulmarg was ready to host an international winter sports event, the CM said, “We can’t even think of it at the moment. Our slopes are not at that level right now. We will have to improve our slopes before we can host international events.”

CM HITS SKI SLOPES

CM Omar, an avid skier, after hitting the ski slopes in Gulmarg, said: “Though snowfall is less this season, it’s still good. We need more snow for better skiing experiences, but for now, we will work on mending the ski tracks during the summer.”

He pointed out the untapped skiing potential of other destinations like Sonamarg and Dodpathri.

“While Sonamarg has great scope for skiing, Dodpathri too can be utilised for other activities. We have engaged a consultant to assess and suggest the best activities for each location,” the CM said.

He said that the setting up of a convention centre in Gulmarg would attract international conferences and meetings.

“We lacked a convention centre here, but now we will have one. This will not only bring national leaders but also position Gulmarg as a prime international destination for events. It’s going to be a significant asset for the region,” CM Omar said.

Inviting tourists to Kashmir, he encouraged them to experience Kashmir’s unmatched hospitality and scenic beauty.

“We hope they leave with unforgettable memories,” he said.