GULMARG: The ski resort of Gulmarg is set to host the second leg of the Khelo India Winter Games from Sunday, with fresh snowfall lending a picturesque backdrop to the highly anticipated event.
The competition will see top athletes battle it out in four key disciplines – Alpine Skiing, Ski Mountaineering, Snowboarding, and Nordic Skiing. Over 300 participants, along with officials, media personnel, and volunteers, have arrived at the snow-clad destination, which has been transformed into a winter sports hub. The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council has made extensive preparations to ensure a smooth and well-organised event.
To ensure smooth conduct, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Maqsood-ul-Zaman, had earlier chaired a high-level security review meeting to finalise comprehensive security arrangements—plans including strict access control, CCTV surveillance, anti-sabotage checks, besides regular patrolling in and around key venues, accommodation facilities, and transit routes.
Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa while reviewing the arrangements, assured that all necessary measures have been put in place. He expressed optimism that the event will be conducted successfully, like the previous editions.
As a prelude to the main competition, an all-women Ski Run was held to mark International Women’s Day, with female skiers from across India taking to the slopes in a celebration of empowerment and sporting excellence.
Athletes have been warming up with practice sessions on the powdery slopes of Kangdoori and Gulmarg, while many also took the opportunity to experience the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world’s highest cable cars, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
To facilitate smooth travel to the venue, the Traffic Police have put in place a detailed plan to prevent congestion on the roads leading to Gulmarg, ensuring hassle-free movement for participants and spectators.
The first leg of the games was successfully held in Ladakh from January 23 to 27, where ice hockey and ice-skating events took place at NDS Sports Complex and Guphuk Pond. (With inputs from KNO)
