Dry spell: J&K admin writes to GoI, seeks deferment of Khelo India Edition-4
Srinagar, Jan 23 (WD):
Amidst a prolonged dry spell in Jammu & Kashmir, authorities have formally requested the Government of India (GoI) to defer the five-day Khelo India Edition-4, scheduled to take place from February 2-6. The plea comes as the region faces an unusual absence of snowfall during the ongoing Chillai-Kalan, the harshest 40-day winter period that began on December 21, 2023, and is set to conclude on January 31, 2024.
While all arrangements for the sports event have been meticulously finalized, particularly in the world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg, officials express concern over the viability of holding the event without the requisite snowfall. Sources indicate that the scheduled dates may be impractical given the current weather conditions in Gulmarg.
To ensure a successful Khelo India National Winter Games, officials stress the importance of adequate snowfall to facilitate the various sports events. Although there is an expectation of snowfall by the end of this month, the time required to set the stage for the five-day event poses a challenge.
Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary for Youth Services and Sports, emphasizes the need for a thorough review of forecast parameters, snow precipitation, and subsequent weather conditions before making a decision on the event. He states that the decision will be made at an appropriate time, refraining from speculating on outcomes. There is currently no proposal to curtail the game schedule, according to Hafeez.
Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council, reassures that all necessary arrangements have been completed, including hotel bookings, to ensure the success of the event. However, she acknowledges that the focus is now on the anticipated snowfall.
The local weather forecast predicts the possibility of light to moderate snowfall in J&K from January 29-31. The Khelo India National Winter Games, first conducted in 2020 at Gulmarg, have witnessed subsequent editions, with the third edition in 2022 being postponed due to the surge in COVID-19 cases. The latest edition in 2023 successfully hosted over 2000 participants, including players, tourists, and officials from various departments.
