SRINAGAR, Feb 23: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced on Sunday that the government is in discussions with private investors to improve the infrastructure at the renowned skiing resort of Gulmarg.
He added that a helicopter service would be operational year-round for both heli-skiing and scenic safaris.
“We are actively engaging with a number of private investors interested in expanding skiing facilities in Gulmarg. If we receive a solid proposal for new infrastructure, we will move forward with it,” Abdullah stated during a press conference in the picturesque hill station in Baramulla district, north Kashmir.
Abdullah mentioned that the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation is also planning additional cable car projects.
“Although we haven’t experienced significant snowfall this year, skiers are still enjoying the slopes. Starting today, heli-skiing will commence, and visitors can take in the breathtaking surroundings from the air. This year, the helicopter service will be available throughout the year, allowing people to experience helicopter safaris in Gulmarg,” he explained.
When questioned about the postponed Khelo India Games, initially scheduled to kick off on February 22, due to insufficient snowfall, Abdullah stated that no announcements could be made yet regarding the event.
“We anticipate fresh snowfall over the next three days starting February 26. After that, Ski Federation experts will assess the slopes. If they determine there is adequate snow to host the games, we will announce the new dates.
“Ideally, I would like the games to occur in the first week of March, as rising temperatures later on may make it difficult to conduct them this year,” he noted.
Responding to inquiries about the upcoming Ramadan fasting month, the chief minister indicated that he would convene a meeting shortly to review the preparations for the observance.
