Heavy Snowfall In Kashmir Valley Likely, Reviving Hope for Khelo India Winter Games 2025
Feb 24, 2025, 2:45 PM | Skymet Weather Team
Heavy Snowfall Expected in Gulmarg; Bringing Enough Snow for Khelo India Winter Games 2025, Image: Canva
The second phase of the 2025 Khelo India Winter Games, which was supposed to take place in Gulmarg, Kashmir, had to be postponed because of insufficient snowfall, leaving the athletes and enthusiasts disheartened. It was one of the driest winters in recent memory, with a startling 73% decrease in snowfall in Jammu & Kashmir between January 1 and February 23. As a result, this lack of snow is having a negative effect on the game as well as tourism and the delicate ecological balance of the area.
But there is now some hope as a number of Western disturbances are expected to approach the Western Himalayan region between February 25 and March 3, according to Skymet. The Western Himalayas, especially Gulmarg, are predicted to have significant snowfall as a result of these meteorological systems. This is probably going to provide enough snow cover to host the Khelo India Winter Games in early March 2025, even though it might not totally make up for the season's snow shortfall.
The predicted snowfall benefits the local economy in addition to the games. Due to the absence of snow, Gulmarg, a well-liked destination for winter sports, has seen a drop in visitor numbers. It is anticipated that the new snowfall would boost tourism by drawing adventurers and nature lovers to the charming valley. Snowfall is also essential for restocking the area's glaciers and sustaining the flow of rivers that come from the Western Himalayas, both of which are critical for the region's water supply and agriculture.
According to experts, this next snowfall may be among the heaviest of the winter, providing the hills and their ecosystems with a lifeline. This prognosis gives athletes and the Khelo India Winter Games organizers new hope. The games serve as a major platform for promoting winter sports and tourism in India, showcasing the country's talent in these areas.
As the Western disturbances approach, all eyes are on Gulmarg, hoping that the snow gods will deliver and pave the way for a successful Khelo India Winter Games in 2025.
