Kashmir Valley Experiences Dry & Warm Winter, 70% Decline In Tourists
The Kashmir Valley is experiencing an unusually dry and warm winter, devoid of the typical snowfall, adversely affecting the tourism sector, particularly adventure tourism. The warmer temperatures are attributed to global warming, raising concerns about potential flash droughts in the upcoming summer.
The absence of snow has severely impacted the adventure sports season in popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. Srinagar Met Centre director Mukhtar Ahmad expresses hope for light snowfall in late January and early February to replenish glaciers. However, the lack of snow during Chillai Kalan, the 40-day coldest winter period, has led to a 70 per cent decline in tourist arrivals in Gulmarg, according to Rouf Tramboo, president of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir.
Hotel cancellations and rescheduling have become common, affecting the winter tourism industry. Some tour operators have redirected tourists to areas with early snowfall, like Sinthan Top, while others have sought alternative destinations like Kazakhstan.
The dry spell also impacts hydroelectricity generation, exacerbating electricity shortages, and affecting drinking water supply as rivers dry up. The 'Khelo India Winter Games' in Gulmarg might be deferred due to insufficient snow, according to Jammu & Kashmir administration officials.
Locals are resorting to special prayers for rain and snowfall to alleviate the impact of the dry winter.
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