Unprecedented dry spell dampens Ladakh's winter sports

Kargil, Jan 17: In a surprising turn of events, the usually vibrant cold desert region of Ladakh, known for its bustling winter sports activities, is facing a setback this season.

The unprecedented weather conditions have cast a shadow, with the noticeable absence of the characteristic snowfall and accumulation that typically defines the winter landscape. This unexpected twist is now causing a ripple effect, affecting various winter sports activities that Ladakh is renowned for during this time of the year.

The absence of the white blanket of snow has raised concerns among enthusiasts and stakeholders alike, posing challenges to the much-anticipated winter sports season. Various winter sports activities like snow skating, ice skating and other Ice Hockey are somehow impacted by the prevailing dry weather conditions.

One of the most popular sports, Ice Hockey which usually keeps the Ladakhis engaged and entertained during winters is also impacted. Ice hockey – an annual affair in January when temperatures plummet and ponds freeze is the most popular winter sport in Ladakh. The month of January has already kicked off strong with various ice hockey championships. It begins with the 16th CEC Cup ice hockey championship. Many play with the hope of making it to the Indian National Ice Hockey team as good players are selected for the national team during the championships. Stakeholders such as Ladakh Winter Sports Club, Department of Youth and Sports, and District Youth Services and Sports every year make efforts and preparations to ensure successful events.

However, in a setback for the thriving Ice Hockey, the Department of Youth Services & Sports faces an unexpected challenge as warm weather disrupts traditional ice rink preparation. Despite proactive efforts by the YSS Department, organising tournaments and coaching camps, the warm weather prevailing in mid-January hampers the formation of the essential ice surface. To combat this challenge, innovative solutions are being explored, such as the use of electric fans during the night to encourage the freezing process.

Among other Ice playing fields, the fanning is being done in Khree Sultan Cho Sports Stadium Bimathang in Kargil since the CEC Cup Ice Hockey Tournament is nearing besides the union territory of Ladakh is preparing for the 4th Edition of Khelo India Winter Games.

Located at an elevation of more than 3,000 metres, Ladakh is an ideal place for the region’s favourite winter sport—ice hockey. Introduced to eastern Ladakh as a downtime game by Indian Army personnel approximately 50 years ago, the sport has gained popularity among locals.

Every year, popular winter tournaments such as the Lieutenant Governor Cup and the Chief Executive Councillor Cup are hosted here, and teams from various parts of Ladakh participate. In February last year, the Ice Hockey National Championship 2023 was held in Ladakh as well. However, climate change, which is causing glaciers to melt rapidly, looms as a huge threat to this popular sport. In the past, matches were usually held at the natural ice pond at Karzoo. The players also practised at such ponds. But rising temperatures have made this difficult.

Secretary of Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh, Ravinder Kumar told Greater Kashmir that "except for some winter games we are carrying with the sports activities including ice hockey, adding that we hope for a heavy snowfall in the coming days so that 4th Edition of the Khelo India Winter Games are held here smoothly."

Pertinent to mention here that as preparations for the 4th Edition of the Khelo India Winter Games gain momentum, Ladakh eagerly anticipates welcoming athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts to witness the thrill of winter sports in the enchanting Himalayan landscape of Ladakh, but the region is eagerly waiting for snowfall.

Deputy Commissioner Leh Santosh Sukhdeve said that the Chadar trek has commenced though this year it has been done on a shorter distance. He said that necessary measures are being taken to continue with the sports activities in Leh.