SRINAGAR,: The winter sports event organised by Department of Tourism started at Gulmarg with the Snow Shoe run and skiing.

Director Tourism Kashmir Mahmood A Shah flagged off the run near ski shop in Gulmarg and the athletes ran 7km on the beaten track. The event was organised by Snowshoe Federation of India in collaboration with J&K Tourism.

Thirty two athletes took part in snowshoe running that involved total of 7 kilometers snowshoeing. Later Director Tourism also flagged off skiing at the slopes marking the beginning of the winter sports in Gulmarg. Large number of locals and tourists had turned up at Gulmarg to witness snow capped meadows and also enjoy skiing. Speaking on the occasion, the Director Tourism said Gulmarg is a major tourism attraction which receives tourists from all over the globe.

He said the department is organizing more activities including snowboarding, ice-staking, heli-skiing besides musical events during winter months to attract tourists. Director Tourism Kashmir said the tourist’s footfall has increased with the recent snowfall and more bookings are expected on Christmas and also on New Year.

“We are not only promoting Gulmarg but also Pahalgam as a winter sports destination where winter sports activities like skiing and ice-climbing from December 31, have been planned ” said Director.

Mahmood Shah said snowshoe is popular sport and daily basis activity in Europe and American countries and department is promoting it in state since last 3 years by organizing multiple events.

Umer Farooq of Srinagar finished first while as Ifshan of Narbal finished second, Sheikh Saqib third, Waheed Ahmad fourth, Alan fifth in the event . Shameem Ahmad Managing Director Cable Car was guest of Honour. Deputy Director Tourism Peerzada Zahoor President Snowshoe Federation of India Mir Mudassar, General Manager Gondola Reyaz Malik, Assistant Director Tourism Dr Ilyas were also present.

Guest