he fourth edition of the ‘Khelo India Winter Games’ commenced today at the snow-bound ski -resort of Gulmarg in Baramulla district. Scheduled from 21st to 25th February 2024, this phase follows the first phase, which concluded earlier this month. The games are organized by the Department of Youth Services & Sports and the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council, in collaboration with the Tourism Department, Gulmarg Development Authority, and other stakeholders. Twenty states and union territories are participating in various sporting events, including snowboarding, Alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, and snow mountaineering. The first phase of the games took place in the Union Territory of Ladakh from 2nd to 6th February 2024. With the recent heavy snowfall, Baramulla and Gulmarg have transformed into a snow wonderland. The current weather conditions are ideal for the smooth conduct of the games. Previously, the entire Kashmir Valley and Ladakh experienced a dry spell in January.The Winter Games were at risk due to the lack of snow. However, timely snowfall during both phases of the games has saved the event. Although Kashmir recorded a rain and snow deficit in January, there was a significant recovery with substantial snowfall in the first three days of February. Despite a prolonged dry spell thereafter, the seasonal deficiency has been reduced to just over 40% as of 18th February 2024, owing to the recent snowfall. The western disturbance continues to impact many parts of UT . Additionally, a fresh western disturbance is forecasted to arrive on 24th February. Another system, more intense than the previous one, is expected to traverse UT and Ladakh from 26th February onwards.
