Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Feb 23: Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani today said climate change is now a reality and planning for major sporting events must adapt accordingly.
“Climate change is a reality, and we must also change our plans,” he said, stressing the need to factor in unpredictable snowfall while organising winter events.
Speaking at the inaugural function of the Gulmarg leg of the Khelo India Winter Games–2026, the Advisor said hosting the event multiple times in Gulmarg reflects its growing stature as a premier winter sports destination.
“It is not a small thing to host this mega event repeatedly at one place. What is heartening is that Gulmarg is fast emerging as the winter games capital,” he said.
Referring to changing weather patterns, he noted that snowfall has become unpredictable.
“Snow has become uncertain. We must ensure facilities like snow-making machines so that events are not delayed,” he said.
He pointed out that there is little difference in weather conditions between Srinagar and Gulmarg now, underlining the urgency of revising planning strategies in view of shifting climatic trends.
The Advisor added that efforts are underway to upgrade tourism and sports infrastructure to position Gulmarg as a hub for national and international winter sporting events.
He said the Chief Minister is making sustained efforts to improve facilities in the area.
Highlighting recent developments, he said the gondola and the drag lift at Kangdori are being upgraded to benefit skiers.
“These facilities will help athletes, but they need further upgradation to make Gulmarg a major national attraction,” he said.
He also underlined the Government’s commitment to promoting sports across disciplines. A marathon scheduled for March, he said, is shaping up to be a national-level event with expected foreign participation.
Emphasising grassroots development, he called for strengthening district-level sports infrastructure to identify and nurture talent.
“We have to support every sport and ensure that talent at the district level is provided with adequate facilities,” he added.
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