PM to e-inaugurate ‘ski drag lift’ at Sonamarg on Thursday

Ganderbal, Mar 5: The ‘ski drag lift’ at Sonamarg tourist destination is among the various developmental and infrastructural projects that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate virtually on Thursday.

The ski drag lift in Sonamarg was installed by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation.

This is the first time that skiing has been introduced in Sonamarg and has already become an instant hit among adventure tourism lovers.

Officials said that the ski drag lift has a capacity of 300 skis per hour and is 260 metres long.

“The installation of the ski drag lift at Sonmarg will be an added advantage to this destination which will be beneficial for the promotion of winter tourism in the area,” officials said. “This area will become the main hub for skiers which will not only boost winter tourism but also provide a platform to the young talent of the area to advance in winter sports activities.”

They said that the J&K Cable Car Corporation has set up the infrastructure, and the Tourism Department, along with the Youth Service and Sports Department and Sonamarg Development Authority would organise ski courses as well as winter games.

The Tourism Department recently undertook a few initiatives to introduce winter adventure sports in Sonamarg this year.

Sonamarg used to remain closed during winter due to inaccessibility and lack of basic facilities.

However, during the last two years, the government has made serious efforts to keep Sonamarg open during winter and promote it as a winter tourist destination.

With the completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel, it has ensured connectivity during winter months.