CM Omar bats for artificial snow generation in Gulmarg
Srinagar, Feb 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday pitched for generation of artificial snow in Gulmarg to safeguard winter sports besides strengthening the winter tourism in the region.
In his address at the inaugural ceremony of 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG)-2026, CM Omar said that traditional winter games were facing a challenge due to climate variability in the region. He welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of adapting to changing weather conditions.
"The recent snowfall patterns have become unpredictable which force the authorities to rethink long-term planning for winter sports infrastructure," the CM said.
He said that the government was committed to developing Gulmarg as an international skiing destination and ensuring consistent sporting activity despite climate challenges.
"Reliance solely on natural snowfall is no longer sustainable. There is a need for the introduction of artificial snow generation systems to secure the future of winter games," CM Omar said.
However, he said that concerns may arise over artificial snow projects but such measures were necessary to prevent loss of tourism opportunities.
"Such an initiative will also protect the livelihoods linked to winter tourism. Time has come for us to move towards artificial snow generation. I understand concerns about water and electricity usage, but if we do not create this infrastructure, a day may come when we will not even be able to ski in Gulmarg, and that would be truly unfortunate," the CM said.
He said that people associated with tourism like sledge operators, ski guides, ski instructors, ATV drivers, all make their living from this snow.
"It is our duty to provide the means and infrastructure that promote tourism and ensure its sustenance," CM Omar said.
He said that the administration would extend all the possible support to athletes and sports infrastructure to nurture more international-level competitors from J&K.
The CM congratulated skier Arif Khan for bringing laurels to the region and expressed hope that more athletes would emerge from the games.
He said that that participation in sports remains as important as winning medals.
"Sustained investment in winter sports and tourism will position Gulmarg among leading global skiing destinations while ensuring economic stability for local communities," CM Omar said.
Later, talking to reporters on the sidelines of the inaugural ceremony, he said that generating artificial snow had become the reality and people would have to accept it.
"No matter how many winter games there are, they are not possible without artificial snow. Yesterday, in Italy the closing ceremony of the Winter Olympics was held and without artificial snow, these Olympics would not have been possible," the CM said.
He said similar facilities had to be made available in Gulmarg as well.
"It has to be done in both ways- one is for sports, so that one day, we are also in a medal position there and secondly, for tourism," CM Omar said.
