Controlled blasting to enhance ski slopes’ safety triggers minor avalanche at Gulmarg

Baramulla, Jan 7: A minor snow avalanche was triggered by controlled blasting of ski slopes in the Kangdori area of the ski resort Gulmarg on Tuesday. The triggered avalanche created panic among the tourists at Gulmarg. However, the officials of the tourism department clarified that the exercise was a controlled event, executed as part of the winter safety protocol for skiers and visitors.

Assistant Director of Tourism for Gulmarg, Tahir Ahmad Wani said that controlled blasting was carried out at the Afarwat slopes to prepare them for skiing and to mitigate the risk of natural avalanches in the future.

“This controlled blasting event was part of our routine winter exercise, which is managed under the supervision of our Snow Safety Officer and the team. The exercise is important to ensure the safety of the skiers and the tourists,” said Tahir Ahmad Wani, Assistant director tourism department Gulmarg.

The snow safety officer for Gulmarg, Brian Newman, in a video message assured the tourists and the locals that this practice has been a long standing protocol and there is no reason to be apprehensive about the event.

“These measures are being taken each year and are essential for enhancing the safety of skiers and visitors at the tourist resort,” he said.